SAO: Avenger

by JCK824TO

It's been two months since SAO was cleared. But the 300 players remain comatose, including Asuna Yuuki. But when he learns about the arranged marriage & the possibility of Asuna in ALfheim Online, Kazuto, & his friends, dive into ALO in search of her. However, they're not the only ones. Steve Rogers, Thomas Anderson, & the Howler Platoon dives in to investigate.

25. Chapter 25

Outside:

Everyone applauded as the young couple are now married.

"Hurray for Asuna!" The neighborhood erupted. "And hurry for Kazuto!"

There were many girls that were cheering on the sidewalks as the screens showed Asuna smiling as she walked with Kazuto.

"Just as well that the large screens and drones are out," Damion remarked to Jenson, "they seemed awfully disappointed that we closed the entrances."

"Yeah..." Jenson agreed. "By the way, that was impressive of tackling those two hooded kids. You sure you weren't a football player?"

"I'm positive..." Damion replied. "But I'm wondering about that myself... I just didn't think."

"I see..." Jenson said. "Anyway, it could've been worse if those two managed to sneak in... but those were seriously teens?"

"Yep, and apparently, they knew both Kazuto and Asuna..." Damion pondered. "Suppose they're from SAO as well?"

"Dunno," Jenson shrugged, "do I look like a survivor?" He said it in a joking tone. However, Damion was trouble by what the punk girl shouted. Who else was targeting Kazuto and Asuna?

But he decided to look into it later.

---

Inside the dining room:

The dining room is filled with the bride, groom, and all of the bridesmaids and groomsmen. As Kazuto and Asuna entered, they found themselves being looked at by friends and family of the Yuukis.

'I can't believe this has happened.' Asuna thought happily. 'A dream come true...'

"Ladies and gentlemen," Alex announced, "my friends... Kazuto and Asuna Kirigaya!"

Both Kazuto and Asuna blushed from the adoration from Alex. Clapping resounded as everyone applauded the two of them.

As the clapping ceased, Alex spoke again. "As best man and best friend of Kazuto, I've written a speech for him."

He unfolded his paper from his tuxedo.

"As you all know, I'm one of the SAO survivors." Alex began. "And met with Kazuto on the first floor and onward. There were times where Kirito ended up saving my behind from the floor creatures such as the mountain valley trolls and rogue players."

"He was skilled and brave... but was also a lonely guy. That was until he met Asuna..." He glanced towards the couple. "A kindred spirit herself."

"Sometimes, I often see him laying down in the grassy field, relaxing like he had all the time in the world." Alex chuckled. "Then, I've seen Asuna laying down with him whenever they're not on quests or floor clearing."

"Of course then, she tried to be aloof and all serious about clearing the game... but she couldn't help herself!"

There was some chuckling from the crowd while Asuna's cheeks went pink.

"You do look cute when napping," Kazuto grinned.

"Kazuto..." Asuna whined playfully.

"But overtime, I saw both of their walls start coming down," Alex continued. "And over time, they became entwined with each other. And before I knew it... they were spending nights together and going on floor raids ahead of everybody else!"

"And after a while, they got married and then adopted Yui..." Alex gestures towards the little AI child.

"Hi everyone!" Yui waved her holographic hand to the audience.

"And of course, Strea." Alex gestures towards the lavender, short-haired teenage girl next to Yui. "But that was until much later..."

Everyone was confused by Strea, who just smiled. "Don't mind me."

"Strea's actually the little sister." Alex explained. "So, her appearance may confuse others.."

The SAO survivors generally accepted this, though the other adults, including the military officers, were still mostly confused. Even the US President and First Lady were confused by this newfound revelation.

"But in any case, in the midst of unusual and extraordinary circumstances..." Alex continued. "After SAO, I assisted Kazuto in rescuing her and the other 299 players. The details that I will leave out for the sake of the bride."

Suguha smiled in relief and understanding for Alex. She too had no desire to relive the final battle for ALO.

"However, the second half of their battle have proved that their love for each other is strong, both virtual and in real life... And now... Kazuto can spend every minute with his wife, Asuna..." Alex finishes. "And with that... let's revel in the celebration of Valentine's Day love and victorious rapture. To Kazuto and Asuna!"

Alex picks up his glass and raised it up, Suguha and their friends did the same.

"To marriage and peace!" Alex called out.

"To marriage and peace!" Everyone said in unison before taking a drink. Asuna touched Kazuto's chest as she leaned into him. The latter held his newly-wed wife close to him.

"So... you up for lunch, honey?" Kazuto smiled.

"You bet, dear." Asuna smirked.

"And I get to cut the cake." She glanced at the knife for the cake, it resembles the very black sword Kazuto uses in SAO. The married couple observed the silverware on the plates at the tables, all of them resembled the very swords both Kazuto and Asuna used in SAO.

"Gotta admit Anderson, he got every detail perfect." Kazuto commented.

Asuna then looked to the cake in wonder, and blushed as she saw perfectly molded movable figures of her and Kazuto embracing. The action figures were even the avatars they had in SAO and in the Void of ALO. And their swords are dug into the top near the figures in a cross formation.

"Every single detail indeed." Asuna agreed.

It was then that Captain Burke came up next to the couple. "Kazuto and Asuna."

The two of them could not help but notice the signature Medal of Honor that was now being worn.

"Captain..." Kazuto acknowledged.

"Hello, Captain Burke," Asuna smiled, "you look in fine form today."

"And the same to you both," Chris reciprocated, "congratulations."

"Thank you, Captain." Asuna replied.

"I did come to warn you both though, that the Doc is wanting to speak a few words, and I think he has a stage set for the both of you," Chris said.

"He has?" Kazuto pondered.

"When does he want to speak with us?" Asuna asked.

"Right about... now."

And, as if on cue, comes Thomas Anderson in his dress uniform, and he was smiling. "Well hello there, newlyweds." He laughed heartily.

"Captain Anderson," Kazuto and Asuna said in sync.

"Hi, Doc," Chris deadpanned.

"Hope you enjoyed the celebration." Anderson smiled.

"We are," Kazuto grinned and he held Asuna. "Thank you for helping with the decorations and such."

"No problem." Anderson replied. "It's the least we can do for the both of you..."

"But hey, that's not all," Anderson said, "I want you both and the Captain to come up with me."

"Sure..." Both Kazuto, Asuna, and Chris followed Anderson.

"It had better be good, Doc," Chris said.

"Don't worry, Captain. This would only take a few minutes.." Anderson reassured before he continued. He cleared his throat as the wedded couple and Chris were standing behind him. The crowd watched as Anderson began to speak.

"Just want to congratulate you two for clearing SAO, and for helping us achieve our victory in ALO." He said. "Today, we celebrate love and victory in the midst of trials and tribulations."

"Thank you, Captain Anderson." Asuna replied.

"Now... some may wonder why this wedding was themed the way it was," Anderson said. Many, except for the SAO survivors and ALO survivors nodded.

"Well, after the whole ALO affair, Kikuoka approached me and we've discussed about the SAO game and the background of what took place. And I was thinking... what a shame. Between Hydra kidnapping three hundred players and the political chaos, these kids never got a proper party to celebrate their triumphs."

"And what better way to celebrate it than on Valentine's Day slash wedding day?" Anderson smiled.

Chris pursed his lips.

"So, without further ado, congratulates to the newly weds!" Anderson cheered.

Cheers erupted again.

"And cheers to our good comrade and intrepid Medal of Honor hero, Captain Burke, the new Captain America for helping to make this all possible!"

More cheers erupted again. Chris had to resist the embarrassment and urge to sigh, simply acknowledging with a nod and a smile.

Kazuto and Asuna waved shyly as their fellow survivors also cheered.

"And with that," Anderson said with a bow, "I wish to make way for a guest of honor who's taken his time out of the White House and his schedule to meet our new married heroes."

"President Bruce Wilson and his wife and First Lady, Stephanie Wilson."

Alex grinned and Suguha's eyes widened as the POTUS and his wife walked up to Kazuto and Asuna. Chris snapped to attention with a salute. "Mr. President, sir!"

"Captain Burke." Wilson acknowledged. "At ease, soldier."

Chris dropped his salute. "It's an honor to have you and your wife here, sir."

"Thank you, but the bigger honor goes to these young newly weds here." The president smiled down to Kazuto and Asuna. "I wish to thank these two for defeating Hydra twice and clearing the name of Captain Christopher Burke..."

"I-" Asuna stuttered a bit, "it's an honor."

"I-It's an honor too, President Wilson." Kazuto added with a stammer.

Wilson chuckled with a friendly smile. Stephanie did the same before glancing towards both Yui and Strea. "And I see these two little angels have joined us in our wonderful world."

"They sure are our little angels, Misses Wilson." Kazuto smiled.

It was then both Yui and Strea approached both the President and First Lady.

"It's wonderful to meet you, Mr. President and First Lady." Yui greeted.

"So polite," Stephanie said with a smile. "And adorable..." She added.

Yui giggled.

"Don't forget me." Strea beamed.

"And... unique," Stephanie was a bit surprised by Strea.

"I know, I look older than I really am." Strea explained. "But, that doesn't mean I can't be the big protective sister to little Yui here." Strea then knelt down and hugged Yui.

"Strea..." Yui groaned in embarrassment. Both Bruce and Stephanie chuckled at the AI sisterly love. The two American leaders then turned back to the married couple.

"Very lovely children you two have." Bruce smiled.

"And very intelligent and capable," Kazuto replied. "And we hope that one day, we'll be able to bring them into the real world."

"Would that be delightful," Wilson chuckled. The president then waved over a Marine in dress uniform. "Mister and now Misses Kirigaya, there was a reason why I wanted to take the time to visit you both while visiting this wonderful country of yours."

"Oh?" Asuna was surprised. Everyone was watching in fascination, as Wilson pulled out a small box.

Thanking the Marine, he turned about and presented to the couple. "On behalf of the United States of America and its grateful citizens... I present to Kazuto and Asuna Kirigaya for their unexpected and exceptional contributions to our national security in the midst of an international terror conspiracy..." Wilson released the tabs to show two star-shaped medals with red, white, and blue ribbons, "the Presidential Medals of Freedom."

Both Kazuto and Asuna were speechless at the two medals presented before them. Their friends and families also gasped as the POTUS and FLOTUS presented their nation's honors to the teens.

Finally, Kazuto spoke. "T-Thank you, Mister President." He stammered.

"My pleasure," President Wilson said.

The married couple then bowed to the POTUS and FLOTUS. "Thank you, Mr. President," Kazuto and Asuna said in unison.

"You're quite welcome..." President Wilson smiled. "You both have done more good for many of our soldiers in this country than I could have imagined."

Some of the onlookers got their phones out.

"Hard to believe, isn't it, Sugu?" Alex whispered. "My president just bestowed high honors on your brother and sister-in-law!"

"Who knew that this day would get better?" Sugu asked.

Rika stood with Scott meanwhile as the whole thing unfolded. She had her phone out with a grin. Tim and Keiko did the same as the former had his phone out. "Just when I thought I had seen it all," Rika told her boyfriend and friends.

"I wonder what's next?" Scott asked his girlfriend.

"I bet Anderson himself would be giving Kazuto and Asuna a couple of wedding gifts." Randy gestures towards the large table on the other side with wrapped presents.

"Hey, don't forget that we've got ours, too," Scott reminded. "Right, Rika girl?" He grinned.

"We sure did, Scotty." Rika chimed.

"We both got gifts as well..." Alex reminded. As the girls and boys chattered a bit, it was then that President Wilson was handed another box by the Marine. He then urged Captain Burke to come forward. "And of course, I would be remiss to not honor the brave soldier and icon of America's fighting men who helped to make this happy day possible."

Colonel Rogers smiled as he watched. It was then that he heard, "on your left, old Cap."

Rogers turned to see Sam Wilson, in his military uniform as well. "Sam... You made it."

"Yeah, we got in just before the Secret Service and jarheads tightened things up with your Rangers out front." Sam said with a smile. He was accompanied by at least five other members wearing their USAF uniforms.

"And I see Hitman has joined the party." Rogers observed.

Peter 'Diplomat' Kennedy chuckled, "you know we don't miss good parties."

"That we don't..." Sam smirked.

"They'd better have good drinks around," Evelyn 'Comic' London sighed.

"I'm sure that they do..." Ronald 'Trigger' Reagan replied.

"Hey look up there," Mikhail 'Cipher' Illych pointed at the stage, "it looks like your President is going to award Captain Burke."

"And I see that both the young married couple have been given awards as well.." Cipher observed.

"Hey, let's watch," John 'Monarch' Dekker hushed his team. The Colonel and Firebird officers then watched as the President opened the case.

"To compensate you for your recent trouble and in recognition of your gallantry and excellence in the face of the enemy and formidable odds, I present to Captain Chris Burke his second Silver Star Medal."

"Thank you, Mister President." Chris acknowledged. Kazuto and Asuna watched in wonder as the President pinned the medal to Chris' uniform. Chris then saluted Wilson.

"Congratulations, Captain America." Wilson said.

"For honor, sir."

Wilson saluted back, and both men lowered their arms. Wilson then put a hand around Chris' shoulder and Stephanie around Kazuto and Asuna's as they faced the crowd.

"To the Heroes of Alfheim Online, Japan, America, and the rest of the free world." Wilson proclaimed. "We salute all of you, and wish all of you a bless Valentine's Day from the bottom of our hearts."

Both President Wilson and Captain Burke saluted to the young couple. It was followed by Colonel Rogers and Captain Anderson.

"Mr. Kazuto and Mrs. Asuna," Wilson said, "God bless you both, and thank you."

Both Kazuto and Asuna felt sheepish from all the attention they're receiving. Shouzou started with the clapping. It was then followed by Kyouko, Alex, and Suguha. The living room was filled with clapping for the three heroes.

"Another Silver Star for the Cap," Anderson said to Rogers. "And for the future leader of the Avengers..." He added.

"Kirito and Asuna receiving the Medal of Freedom," Andrew laughed to Trish, "who knew?"

"You said it, Andrew honey." Trish agreed. "And among the youngest, if not the youngest."

"I'm so proud of both Kazuto-niisan and Asuna-nesan." Suguha beamed.

Midori had to keep herself from tearing up. 'Oh Kazuto, how much you have grown up.' She thought happily.

"So the US President came all the way here to give the both of them high honors," Minetaka said admiringly, "good on him."

"You said it, Minetaka-san." Randy agreed.

"Kirito, meeting the President of the United States, now that's some real gaming news," Haruto added.

"You got that right, Haruto-kun." Nijika replied. "I mean... who gets to meet the most powerful national leader in the world like this?"

"That's something Kirito and Asuna can brag about." Klein chimed.

"Darn right," Nathan grinned. "They'd probably gonna get Nobel Peace Prizes as well. Like Anderson, Rogers, and the President did after the war..."

Meanwhile Kazuto and Asuna were walking back to their parents with the US president and his wife following.

"Such a lovely home you have, Mrs. Yuuki." Stephanie commented. "Thank you for letting us come to your home, Mrs. Yuuki."

"You're very welcome, Stephanie-san." Kyouko bowed.

"You two have shown our family more grace and favor than we could have asked for," Shouzou added.

"It's the least we could do for you after what you've gone through." Wilson said.

Stephanie then spotted Minetaka and Midori coming up with Alex and Suguha. "And you must be Kazuto's parents." She added.

"Yes we are," Midori chirped, "pleasure to meet you and the President!"

"Same here for me too," Minetaka acknowledged with a small smile.

"I heard about you, sir," Wilson grinned, "a famous cop here in Tokyo."

"Beretta Kirigaya..." Stephanie added.

"Then my reputation does precede me even more," Minetaka said.

"You said it, dad." Suguha agreed.

"Had to take time out for my kids though," Minetaka said as he smiled towards his daughter.

"More like your fellow officers had to convince you to take a break," Midori pouted, "you're slipping into your old habits again with those cases."

"True..." Minetaka nodded.

"Hey, time for war and time for peace," Wilson said, "and I speak from experience."

"If I recall, Mr. President." Alex observed, "you served in the US navy during the eighties and nineties."

"Yes I did, young Mitchell," Wilson nodded, "back when the world was somewhat more... black and white." Suddenly, Wilson broke out into a snicker.

Suguha was puzzled by Wilson's statement. "I don't get it."

"Well..." Alex began.

However, Wilson saved Alex the trouble. "BLACK and White," he snickered.

Stephanie rolled her eyes a bit. "Bruce tends to leave puns sometimes..." She explained. "He's a funny guy."

"Something that got me through the Navy." Wilson added. "I took some racial remarks and jokes from then and made light of them in my own way."

It was then Suguha realized what the American President meant. "I think I get it..."

"Oh... haha!" Alex laughed, "good one, sir!"

Kazuto and Asuna chuckled in amusement, everyone getting acquainted with the American President at their wedding. Even their AI daughters watch on, impressed by the conversation.

"Thank you for these, Mr. President," Asuna held up her medal.

"You're welcome, Mrs. Kirigaya." Wilson smiled. "That's our highest honor outside the military. I hope you and your husband cherish them."

"We will, sir." Kazuto said. "This... this is more than we could have asked from anyone, let alone a president."

"I know that feeling, Kazuto." Minetaka replied.

Meanwhile, Chris was approached from the side by his Colonel, Preston, Anderson, and the officers of Firebird.

"So... How are you guys liking the party?" Anderson asked.

Kazuto held Asuna close with a loving look. "More than I imagined."

"Glad you're enjoying it." Anderson smiled. "I also have a song for both of you when you take the dance floor."

"Oh?" Kazuto quirked an eyebrow.

"What song is it?" Asuna asked in curiosity.

"A song that pretty much speaks your time together." Anderson replied.

Asuna was now intrigued. She gave her husband yet another soft look. Kazuto looked back to her lovingly as well. They then turned to Chris.

"Well. Captain, congratulations on your second Silver Star," Anderson said with a smile.

"Thank you, but it's nothing," Chris downplayed it.

Anderson chuckled with a slight eyeroll, "oh come on... you don't have to be so overly modest."

"Anderson-san has a point, Captain Burke." Kazuto agreed. "After all, you and the Howlers helped us rescue everyone and stopped Hydra's plans."

"Same here..." Asuna added. "And of course, we returned the favor and helped you out..."

"Take it for what it is, and congratulations, Captain," Colonel Rogers said.

There was a long pause before Chris answered. "Alright..."

It was then that the young female officer next to Wilson and John Dekker smirked. "Lookie here guys," Robin 'President' Kuo said, "the Army's decorated star in colors."

"Is that so?" Ronald 'Trigger' Reagan raised an eyebrow.

Robin just bumped Ronald's elbow. "Chris Burke, Captain America, rookie."

"The new Captain America." Kennedy clarified.

Captain Burke turned to face them as Sam Wilson came up and raised a hand. "Congrats, new Cap."

Chris looked Sam Wilson in the eyes. "Major Sam Wilson."

"I guess this meant that you'll be passing me while we're jogging." Sam joked.

"Sorry?" Chris asked.

Rogers chuckled before answering. "I used to pass him when we went out jogging back in Washington DC."

"Yeah, you passed me like three times, while calling 'on your left'." Sam laughed.

President Wilson then laughed. "Glad to see you here, nephew."

"Wouldn't miss the party for anything, Uncle..." Sam replied.

This newfound revelation took the young married couple by surprise.

"Uncle?" Asuna was bewildered.

"That's a surprise." Kazuto admitted.

"Yep... Sam Wilson is his nephew," Colonel Rogers confirmed.

"I think I've read something like that before." Alex explains. "You were an accomplished Pararescue with the experimental Falcon Exo-wing program."

"That's correct," Sam smirked, "and I took part of stopping Hydra back in 2014... and here I am now... fighting Hydra again and seeing Kazuto and Asuna Kirigaya both get married."

"Also," Alex continued. "You were once part of the Avengers back in 2015..."

"He was one of the Colonel's closest allies and confidants then," Chris added.

"And still am, long after the first Avengers split." Sam finished.

"And still, you've made quite a new name for yourself," President Wilson complimented. "Good work with Firebird Squadron."

"He's been at my side with Bucky since 2014." Rogers added.

"Don't forget us," Peter chimed.

Chris and the President regarded the five-man Hitman Team. "The maverick mercenary flyboys," Chris remarked.

"Major Wilson here had proved himself on our first mission." Peter said. "He managed to impress us with his Falcon suit."

"While not as durable as the Iron Man suit," Dekker stated. "But it's pretty agile."

Chris then walked up to the Firebirds, towering over most of them. He then said, "I never got to meet any of you before, but excellent work last month. Your air cover was critical to me and the groom and bride surviving the Hydra terrorist attack."

"Wouldn't want anything to happen to you." Mikhail commented, "after all, you're a war hero."

"And the symbol of our nation, sir," Ronald added, "your assassination would have dealt a severe blow. Let alone, cause unrest back home..."

"Your uncle, Senator Daniel Burke was raising a ruckus back in Washington with the entirety of your home state's senators and reps. There's no telling what would happen if you were killed."

Robin Kuo then turned to Kazuto and Asuna. "Never thought I see a married couple so young..." She admitted.

Asuna raised an eyebrow. "Sorry?"

"Oh, where are my manners... Lieutenant Robin Kuo, at your service."

"Nice to meet you, Kuo-san." Asuna bowed.

Kazuto then noticed. "You're Korean."

"That's correct," Robin replied, "born and raised in South Korea. I've been an American citizen since after the end of the last Civil War."

"That's nice to hear." Asuna smiled.

John Dekker then greeted. "Hey young lovebirds, glad to meet you both for the first time on the ground."

"On the ground?" Kazuto asked. He then realized, "Captain Burke talked about you... Hitman?"

"That's right," Dekker smiled, "we were present when Hydra attacked Yokota air base. You might have seen me and Kuo here zipping over you all in a good old Tomcat."

That got Alex's attention. "Wait... that Tomcat!?"

"One and only." Dekker chuckled.

Sugu looked at Alex. "You know about him?"

"I've heard stories from Jonathan before SAO." Alex answered. "The Hitman Team was an American mercenary group consisting of some former air force pilots demobilized in the years after the Cold War."

"You mean, the First Cold War?" Sugu asked. She knew that there's a Second Cold War between the United States and the Chinese States.

Alex chuckled, "of course."

"I'm Captain John Dekker," Dekker introduced himself, "flight leader of Hitman Team, former mercenary flying corps and now USAF Firebird fighter wing."

"Nice to meet you, Captain Dekker." Sugu greeted.

Kazuto smiled as he extended a hand. "Then Asuna and I also owe our being alive to you and your pilots."

"Think nothing of it, Kazuto." Dekker smiled as he shook his hand. "Just air force pilots doing our jobs."

"As do all good soldiers, Captain Dekker," Chris replied.

"Ah yes... the ever loyal and dutiful Captain Chris Burke," Dekker said with a good natured tone. "Long time no see.." He added.

"The last time I saw you, Monarch, you were walking away from the Navy back in 2017 out of protest," Chris remembered, "which was really surprising given how you were the biggest fighter jockey back in high school and TMLA. It was your dream to fly over distant lands from an aircraft carrier."

"Yeah... But remember, that was the time when the old US government's issuing orders to suppress activists who opposed the Sokovia Accords." Dekker replied. "And my dream doesn't involve shooting American citizens who are fighting for their rights... And with the way they were asking us to potentially rat out our fellow pilots and sailors, it was 'no way Jose' for me."

Kazuto then said, "you two know each other."

Chris nodded his head. "He's a Corpus Christi native, and an old classmate of mine."

"All the way from Texas." Dekker beamed.

"He was part of the same class as me from TMLA," Chris added. "And during the Civil War, he was part of the Free States Air Force."

"Well, in honesty, Hitman and I were initially part of the USAF that joined the early Pacifica government," Dekker shrugged.

Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha were surprised.

"You're saying that your squadron was part of Pacifica?" Suguha asked.

"Part of Pacifica?" Peter Kennedy rolled his eyes, "we were just hired, little girl."

"Okay..." Suguha said, she was starting to feel uneasy. Alex noticed this and hugs her.

"If it makes you all feel any better," Evelyn London said with some apparent disdain, "it was a good deal for a while until they started going all crazy wanting to conquer the rest of America."

"So we defected to the Free States and the rest became history." Dekker finished.

President Wilson nodded along with what the three senior members of Hitman said. "For their loyal assistance and because of the state of the world at the time," he said, "I offered these three back their commissions in the armed forces and political protection against any who would seek reprisals against them. My administration and I made it a point to forgive and protect those who freely rejoined the Union during the war."

"That's good to hear..." Suguha smiled.

"Especially during the last months of the war." Alex added. "But, I'm not gonna go on details as we're having a celebration here."

Asuna then pointed to the table of food and cake. "Come everyone, Sada and I made enough for everyone to enjoy!"

"Sure thing, Asuna-nesan." Sugu beamed as she, Alex and everyone gathered around the buffet table. Kazuto and Asuna are the first to cut the cake.

"You ready, Asuna?" Kazuto asked.

Asuna gave a happy and cute smile as she held the knife. "I'm ready, Kazuto-kun."

Together, they sliced the knife into the cake, cutting the first piece. Then they made another slice, there was cheering as the couple made two slices. The two then handed them to Alex and Suguha.

"Thanks." Suguha said.

"Smush some cake into Kazuto's face!" Rika called out.

"Rika!" Alex was shocked.

"What? It's tradition for the bride to smush cake into the groom's face." Rika laughed.

"Rika..." Scott chuckled.

Kazuto seemed a little nervous as he looked at Rika and the crowd. Suddenly, he felt a cold, sticky feeling on his left cheek with a petite hand. It was followed by giggles.

"I got you, Kazuto-kun." Asuna giggled. Laughter ensued, especially from Asuna's brother and the girls. It was then a devious grin formed on Kazuto's face as he takes the plate. He dips his finger into the frosting and manages to smear it on the tip of Asuna's nose.

"Oh? A gentleman as ever!" Scott laughed.

"Kinda figured he'd do that!" Rika added with laughter. Kazuto and Asuna stared at each other, before laughing at the absurdity of it all. Kazuto then swiped the frost off Asuna's nose and put his finger to his mouth while she likewise took a wipe swipe to his cheek to suck on the frosting.

"Mmmmm... Delicious..." Asuna hummed.

Kouichirou found his sister bantering with her new husband adorable. He suddenly felt hands on his shoulders.

"Hey, Koui." A feminine voice chimed. Kouichirou turned around to see a familiar face.

"Susan..." He smiled. "You made it."

"Wouldn't miss this for the world." Susan gushed. "Your sister looks wonderful!"

"She sure does." Kouichirou agreed before adding. "Their AI children are here too..."

Susan looked around and saw Yui and Strea watching. "That's them? They look so adorable."

The two AI girls sees her and approached them.

"Uncle Kouichirou!"

"Yui! Strea!" Kouichirou beamed. Yui's holographic form jumped up and down in front of Kouichirou.

"It's so great to see you!" Yui cheered.

Strea glanced towards Susan and tilted her head in curiosity. "Hello?"

"Yui, Strea, This is Susan." Kouichirou said. "She is my girlfriend."

The AI girls turned to Susan, then back to Kouichirou. It was then they bowed to Susan. "It's nice to meet you, Susan-san."

"And so polite too!" Susan beamed. The AI sisters giggled. Susan looked up and saw points of lights from the 3D projectors.

"Anderson had them installed all around the home so they can be present in the real world." Kouichirou explained. "Kazuto and Asuna are very happy as you can imagine."

"As well as these two are..." Susan concluded.

"Yes we are," Strea chimed, "and you must be our future aunt!" That made Kouichirou sputter and Susan shocked to hear that aloud.

"S-Strea!" Kouichirou was embarrassed.

Yui giggled. "It's true, Uncle Kouichirou."

Susan was blushing deep red.

Meanwhile, Kazuto and Asuna are chatting while dining in on the cake. "Is this what you imagined, Asuna?"

"It was amazing..." Asuna answered. "It was better than I imagined..."

Asuna then handed a slice of cake to Rika.

"Thanks, Asuna." Rika smiled.

"That's a rather large slice," Asuna chuckled nervously. She knew her friend to be a big eater but...

"Oh... it's not just for me," Rika laughed.

"It's no-" Asuna cut herself off and then smirked. "Oh... I get it..."

Scott himself had a large plate of Japanese food.

"Fair trade cowboy," Rika said, "I share the cake while you share the entrees."

"Deal..." Scott smiled as he picks up one of the entrees and offers it to Rika.

Asuna giggled as the two went to their table. Tim and Keiko are next as they both got one slice each.

"Thank you Asuna and Kazuto," Tim softly replied.

"You're welcome, Tim." Asuna smiled.

"This is wonderful," Keiko gushed.

"It sure is, Keiko..." Tim agrees before taking the first bite. "And I can do this together with you."

"Mmmmm..." Keiko cooed as she took her bite into the cake. "Strawberry!"

"With a mix of milk chocolate and vanilla." Tim added.

"Asuna has really good tastes for just about everyone," Kazuto said proudly of his new wife.

"Thanks again, Asuna." Keiko smiled.

"You're welcome," Asuna beamed.

Scott and Rika are enjoying both the cake and entrees.

"Yeah, this is the life!" Rika cheered.

"You said it, Rika." Scott agreed before taking a bite in one of the entrees. "Gotta hand it to the entrees, they're delicious."

"Hey, Asuna and family are rich, so they can afford it," Rika remarked.

"True..." Scott finished one of his entrees and offered another to her. "Salmon, my blacksmith maiden?"

"Sure thing, my Salamander warrior..." Rika giggled as she takes a bite out of the salmon. "Mmmmm... Delicious..." She hummed.

"Happy you like it," the punk American boy said in a gentlemanly tone and with a grin.

Rika then dipped her fork into the cake and offered a bite to Scott. "Dessert, dear," Rika laughed.

"Why thank you, honey." Scott chuckled before opening his mouth and taking a bite.

Meanwhile Nathan was trying to catch up with Strea in the midst of the lunch crowd.

"Quite a wedding reception, isn't is Strea?" Nathan asked. He caught up with her from behind, but Strea was not surprised, given the sensors around the place.

"It sure is, Nathan." Strea beamed. She then jumped and glomped him, "and I'm happy to see you too!"

"Mmph!" Nathan was surprised as his face was in Strea's bosom. He blushes as she pulls him in a tight hug.

Randy, who was nearby, saw this and held back his snicker. Kenji and Momiji also looked amused, along with Haruto and Nijika.

Kenji teased. "He's getting the intimate treatment."

"He sure does, Kenji." Momiji giggled.

"You go, cowboy!" Haruto said.

"Nathan's feeling lucking right now." Nijika teased.

"Mmpph!" Nathan tried to get himself released. Strea however, continues to hold him in a intimate hug.

"Happy Valentine's Day!" She chimed.

"A Valentine's Day gift for Nathan, indeed!" Randy laughed.

Kazuto and Asuna were making their way to their reserved seats when they came upon the scene. "Hey Strea, you know there are people around," Kazuto laughed.

"Young lady," Asuna wagged her finger while suppressing a laugh, "you need to let him breathe."

"Mmmpphh!" Nathan muffled in response.

"Strea!" Yui pouted.

Strea then noticed the glances Yui's giving her as well as from several people. "Sorry, Yui..." Strea said as she released Nathan from her hug.

"You don't do that in public, Strea! That is inappropriate," Yui said.

Strea hung her head as she is scolded.

It was then Nathan hugged Strea. "Hey, don't feel bad. I know that you love me and wanna show it." Nathan reassured. "But Yui and your parents are right though. Stuff like that are done in private."

"Codex..." Strea muttered.

"Oh, and Happy Valentine's Day to you too..." Nathan smiled. Strea hummed happily. Yui's expression softened for her big little sister. Kazuto and Asuna found the scene endearing after their laughter subsided.

They both walked up to Nathan and Strea.

"Hope Strea didn't smother you too much, Nathan." Kazuto snickered.

Nathan blushed even as Strea was beaming.

"Well... I..." Nathan stammered.

"Hehe.." Asuna giggled. "Sounds like our Strea has gotten Nathan all tongue-tied."

"Sounds like it," Kazuto laughed with Asuna.

Randy joined in. "You said it, Nathan was enjoying it from what we saw."

"Just wait a little longer until you tie the knot," Kazuto joked.

"Perhaps you two could do that while logging in." Asuna teased.

"H-hey!" Nathan blushed.

Strea giggled. "That sounds like a great idea, mom."

"Y-you're her parents! Shouldn't you be... you know!" Nathan sputtered.

"Be strict on you?" Asuna finished. Yui then walked up to Nathan with a stern, yet cute expression.

"Make sure you're very nice to Strea..." Yui said. "Because I can tell when players are being suspicious."

Nathan was beginning to sweat. "Y-Yes, Yui..." Nathan stammered.

"And I'll be watching too," Kazuto laughed with a grin.

"Same here, with a potato peeler." Asuna giggled. That got their other friends laughing.

"Looks like Nathan's got more than what he bargained for." Momiji laughed.

"Now he's gotta face Mommy and Daddy," Kenji added. "He'd better make a good impression."

"Yes, he had better," Momiji said, "because a mommy with a potato peeler is no joke!"

Strea was still smiling when Nathan went to hug her. "Don't worry, Strea. I'll make sure you're very happy." He reassured her.

"I know!" Strea sang. "And I can't wait for you to log back on again!"

Nathan smiled as his friends clapped for him.

"Such a gentleman you are, Nathan!" Randy called out.

Meanwhile Colonel Rogers, Chris Burke, and Jack Preston were conversing with their Air Force counterparts when Sharon walked up.

"Hey Steve..." Sharon greeted.

"Sharon," Steve gave his beaming smile for Sharon. "I see that you're enjoying the celebration." She added.

"Oohhh... looks like his fiancée tagged along with the big boss," London teased with Peter, who just chuckled.

"Looks that way..." Dekker agreed. Reagan, still the relative newcomer out of the regular USAF, just looked at his team with weird looks.

Mikhail noticed this. "What is it?"

"Do they like to gossip about superiors right in front of them," Reagan asked the Russian.

"Not all the time.." Mikhail replied. "Besides, they don't seem to mind..."

Colonel Rogers held Sharon's hand, while glancing towards Chris and Preston. " Can you both excuse me? I trust that you can hold the fort."

"Sure thing, Colonel." Preston smirked.

"Yes sir!" Chris gave a salute, ever the loyal and firm officer to his predecessor. Preston also saluted as well before Steve left with Sharon. Steve and Sharon went off to the side, the latter holding the former by the crook of his arm. Sharon wore a white one piece dress which contrasted nicely with Steve's Army green dress uniform.

"Finally, a moment of peace." Sharon said. "It's been over two months since you went down to Mexico, Steve."

"And it's been a month since we repelled Hydra's attacks." Steve added.

He looked around just to be sure no one was really watching. Steve then gave Sharon a soft kiss.

"Mmmmm..." Sharon hummed with delight.

Steve then parted. "Missed that?"

"I sure did, Steve." Sharon smiled. "You know how boring it is back in Washington without your old charm company."

"Same for me whenever I'm deployed on missions." Steve agreed. "And my stay in Japan was certainly not on my agenda... but things happen."

"That's true... But we are here now," Sharon cheered Steve up. "And we're gonna spend Valentine's Day together..."

"Yes... and make it all count, Sharon," Steve added with a smile. They then watched as the married couple of the day took their seats as guests showered them with adulation. The groomsmen and bridesmaids took their seats with their respected partners.

"They're certainly the hot topic." Sharon commented.

"Kazuto and Asuna?" Steve had admiration in his tone. "Bravest teens I've seen in generations."

"Not including Spider-Man?" Sharon asked, recalling that Rogers fought Peter Parker, aka Spider-Man, in Germany during the Avengers Civil War.

"He... Peter still has much to learn," Steve said. While he proved to be an adept fighter under Stark's watch, he still seemed to have ways to mature. However, he'd improved during the Second Civil War while he aided the resistance in New York City against the New England Separatists. He would even prove to be instrumental in intelligence gathering and spreading pro-American messages throughout the western states against the militant Pacifica regime. After the war, he resumed his activities in New York City as Spider-Man and help restore the city.

Hopefully, he had a good Valentines Day with his girlfriend, Mary Jane Watson.

"I'm sure that he'd learned a lot in the past nine years..." Sharon reassured him. "At least he made up for what happened back in 2016..."

"Well, I cannot totally fault him," Steve told her, "besides, it wasn't like he was in a death game of some sort."

"True..." Sharon agreed.

Sharon looked towards Kazuto and Asuna. "And now, they're gonna take the mantle for the future Avengers..."

Not just yet..." Roger said, "they have some time hopefully."

"Agreed, they're still young, but they did managed to prove themselves so far." Sharon replied.

"But at what cost?" Steve told her. He then gave Sharon an earnest look. "They are younger than when I first enlisted, and already they are in the midst of a country going to war internally. And they were probably even younger when this SAO death game started. Sharon, that's years of innocence that they can never get back. This Valentines Day wedding might be the last day of happy normalcy for them in a world that has changed so quickly."

Sharon remained silent as she processed of what Steve had told her. Being an intelligence officer, it was easy to forget that personal angle to peoples' lives.

"Yes... even younger than either Captain Burke or Lieutenant Burke." She turned her gaze towards the young married couple who are enjoying their conversation with their friends. Kazuto and Asuna were having the lunch of their lives together. Even their AI daughters are enjoying the lunch despite that they're AI in hologram displays. Anderson apparently had the foresight to code virtual food for them to enjoy.

"Wasn't the hologram projector originally Stark's design?" Sharon asked. She recalled reading a report that Tony Stark invented an augmented device back in 2016.

"Yes... It was, but it went into hiatus right before the Avengers Civil War began." Steve explained. "Plus, it had a few bugs to fix." He observed the 3D projection. "And now, after nearly nine years of testing, it's finally ready for use..."

"... and Stark keeps the patents through Stark-Anderson," Steve smiled for his friend.

Sharon couldn't agree more as she and Steve watched on.

Meanwhile, Kazuto and Asuna were enjoying their roundtable with their friends. The married couple shared bites of the cake and entrees.

"You first," Kazuto laughed as he fed Asuna some noodles.

"Mmmmmmm..." Asuna hummed with delight as she took bites of the noodles. She slurped up the noodles and giggled. "Delicious..." She then fed Kazuto one of the steak slices.

"Mmmm... Yummy..." Kazuto chuckled as he chewed the steak slices.

"Onii-chan, you and Asuna-nesan keep going like that..." Suguha was amused.

Kazuto blushed while Asuna giggled.

"You two are such romantics," Alex laughed. "Sugu and I would have to try hard to compete with you two."

"Alex!" Sugu giggled.

"What? It's true..." Alex smiled. "You were fangirling over how romantic your brother and sister-in-law were, and fantasized us being as romantic."

Suguha then blushes and giggles. "You caught me, Alex-kun." She laughed.

"You really are Kirito's sister," Kotone teased.

"Don't forget that you'll have to compete against me and Scott." Rika reminded with a child-like giggle.

Keiko then asked Kotone, "by the way. Where is Dex... I mean Private Damion? He's not here?"

"He's on guard duty," Kotone said, "as lovely as it would be to have him here, he still has his duty." She seemed both impressed and resigned. "His life as a soldier is so... strict."

"That's a bummer." Keiko replied. "Otherwise, he would've been one of the groomsmen."

"True... but he keeps us safe like all the other soldiers," Kotone smiled, "and I never thought I'd be so happy to have a man protecting us like that."

"Along with the rest of Howler Platoon." Keiko added. "They are still so young... many of them."

"The civil war did a number on them too..." Kotone agreed. "The core of their best troops and officers come from Texas and the Californias, but Damion told me that many of the new recruits like himself come from some of the poorer Midwest and Southwestern parts of America. He said that the inflation is so bad in these places, that the most their families could afford without state and federal assistance are just enough meals and gas for single months at a time."

"Dang..." Momiji gasped. "Talk about having it rough..."

"So it's serve or go hungry," Nijika shuddered.

"Even the progress of both Anderson Tech and the Restoration Act are still in effect," Haruto added.

"I can't imagine what some of those families think of their sons risking their lives over paying bills," Kenji added, "I don't even know if I could do something like that."

"Especially since we went through SAO in the past two years." Tim replied. "Most of us protected each other from the creatures of Aincrad as well as rogue players. But having to fight wars for a living..."

Keiko shivered from the thought and Tim had to hug her. "Tim... you don't think you will be made a soldier, will you?"

Tim shook his head. "No... Otherwise, we wouldn't moved out here months before the war... And I'm not even of draftable age yet by two years."

"Good... Because I don't want to think of losing you fighting in the army..." Keiko clutched onto him.

"Don't worry, Keiko..." Tim reassured her. "No matter what happens, I'll always be by your side and together, we can be part of the New Avengers..."

Tim emphasized the point by telekinetically floating his knife, having been experimenting with his new power. He slices a small piece of the cake and offered it to Keiko. "For you..."

"Thanks, Timmy-kun." Keiko smiled as she took a bite out of the cake. Tim gently sets the knife back down on the table, no longer levitating.

"You've been experimenting," Kazuto asked Tim.

"I have..." Tim answered. "And I've been getting good at it..."

"Show off," Scott huffed.

Rika hugged Scott. "Don't worry, Scotty. I'm sure you have powers of your own..."

"You know now that I think of it," Kotone realized, "only Kazuto, Asuna, Alex, and Timothy have manifested their powers."

"You're right..." Keiko agreed. "I wonder if we have powers as well..."

Kazuto squeezed Asuna's hand. The latter turned her attention to her married beloved. He gave her a look that told her 'I hope not'. Asuna understood why.

"So..." Momiji said. "What movies did you guys watch on your bachelor party?"

Kazuto then smiled at the distraction.

"Well..." Alex began. "We watch 'Crimson Skies' first... After that, we decided to explore other films. Such as Red Alert, the Starship Trooper remake, and Blue Brothers: The Next Generation."

As the young adults were talking movies, the two leaders of Howler 7-1 sat down to their lunch with the Firebirds.

"I see that you and Kuo are as tight knit since you left the Navy," Chris talked to Dekker.

"That's correct, Cap." Dekker replied. "She may deny it, but you know... she choose to be that special person on this certain day." At that, Kuo just pouted.

"It is so girly," the tomboy Kuo huffed.

"Nothing wrong with that." Dekker chuckled.

"Don't listen to him, Burke," Kuo pleaded.

"Come on, Kuo. You know you like it once in a while..." Dekker egged on.

"Lead..." London groaned. "We are having lunch!"

Peter just laughed as he suddenly touched London's waist under the table. This caused her to squeak in surprise.

"Pete!" London hissed a whisper.

"Come on, London... You love that." Peter whispered back while grinning.

"You!" London hissed. Peter continued to laugh. Meanwhile, Chris watched on while taking a bite into one of the entrees.

"Wilson, I don't need super-hearing to tell what that pilot did to the other," he muttered.

Sam just chuckled before replying. "Well, those two have been at it for months."

"I'm sorry, but Lieutenant Kennedy sounded like he was bordering on unprofessional sexual behavior in uniform," Chris observed.

"At least they're not doing in while on missions and such." Sam replied.

"I would hope not," Chris gave his Air Force counterpart an expectant look. Sam could not help but find Chris Burke a little intimidating.

"You have to excuse my Captain, he gets that from his dad," Preston chuckled. "General Samuel Burke."

"I see..." Sam said. "That old man's all business and no play."

"The reason that you and your unit are even able to do half of what you do is because of him," Chris deadpanned as he ate. "He makes our special operations possible the way they are."

"Alright then.." Sam acknowledged before taking another bite of the entrees. "Didn't mean to come off as rude or anything."

"Dad and I get used to it," Chris replied.

"Yeah, so no worries." Preston added.

"Though I'll dare say that you could be a little nicer at times, Cap," Anderson poked. He sat down between Preston and Sam.

"What's up, Doc," Chris greeted.

"Hey, nice Bugs Bunny impression," Anderson laughed. "And you told me that watching old cartoons was childish." He added with a grin. Chris just shook his head and continued eating.

"Did I just hear that?" Sam did a double take.

"Doc? Where did he get that from?" Kennedy asked.

"Anderson's a genius when it came with technology and weaponry." Preston explained.

"It just stuck," Chris answered simply.

"Alright then.." Kennedy replied. "And I assume that you're the new Iron Patriot then..."

"Correct." Anderson nodded. "Took over from Rhodes."

"Wasn't he the War Machine?" Kennedy asked. "That's the title he goes by if I recall..."

"Well, he took the Iron Patriot title back in 2013 when a terrorist called the Mandarin, began a series of attacks. And newly-elected president Matthew Ellis commissioned him during the whole event."

"And where is he now?" London asked, "haven't heard about him in a while."

"He's taking missions against the cartels in Mexico." Anderson answered. "He's gonna be very busy now that Howler Platoon is stationed in Japan for anti-Hydra combat."

"You'd think Castle would be able to pilot his own War Machine armor?" Preston asked.

"He did qualify on the weapon system," Chris reminded with a straight face.

"I know," Preston replied, "it's just that I haven't seen him use it since the civil war. But given of the situation, I'm sure that he'll be piloting it again soon."

"Those things are not cheap to built or maintain, let alone issue, lieutenant."

"Actually," Anderson spoke up, "I've had the second version of the Iron Punisher armor built with improvements from the first version. While it may not be sleek like the Iron Man or Iron Patriot suits, but the Iron Punisher Mk II will have repulsor weaponry with the arsenal."

"For the price of one of those armors, we can arm fifty to sixty of our Rangers in full gear. Don't forget, Doc," Chris was blunt.

Dekker, Kennedy, and Kuo watched both Anderson and Chris discuss on the Iron Man project.

"Those two argue a lot?" Kuo asked.

"More than you think." Preston answered. "They will butt heads over anything. Even during the whole ALO mission."

"I can see why," Dekker said knowingly as he watched Chris argue his good old soldier point with the techie Anderson.

"Anyway, we should continued the celebration..." Kennedy suggested.

It was then that some of the guests began approaching to congratulate Kazuto and Asuna at their table.

"Thank you very much." Asuna smiled. She was talking with a man and woman who were old family friends, who then turned to Kazuto.

"It's nice to meet you, Kazuto-kun.." The man greeted. "And a most welcome choice for young Asuna here!"

"Hehe.." Asuna giggled.

"T-Thank you." Kazuto replied with a flushing face.

"And all the better," the woman added, "I knew that something was awry with that Nobuyuki, and my intuition was right as ever! And I'm glad you two beat him black and blue for what he did."

"Also," the woman continued, "we're glad that things have worked out for you two..."

"My mother is also very glad too," Asuna replied, "she's probably the most relieved besides me. Not to mention that she's taken interest of Kazuto's background with his father's past and current job as an inspector."

"Ah yes," the man laughed, "the famous police homicide detective! Beretta Kirigaya!"

Kazuto was a bit flustered. He would never get used to his adopted father's fame among his generation.

"In fact, I heard that he was so well regarded that he even was sent on some training exchanges with the Los Angeles police," the man added.

Kazuto did a double-take. "He has?"

"You didn't know?" The man asked.

"No," Kazuto shook his head, "I'm continued to be surprise every time."

Asuna giggled at her husband's reaction. "In fact, I never knew he was a cop until before the war in Alfheim," Kazuto admitted, "and he's only just rejoined the MPD in hopes of bringing the rest of Hydra to justice."

"I see..." The man pondered. "That's something to be proud of..."

The wife then held Asuna's hand gently. "May Kami bless you and your new husband."

"Thank you very much." Asuna replied. "This means so much for me and Kazuto."

"Leafa!"

Everyone turned towards a boy with glasses calling out.

"Recon!" Suguha replied back.

Shinichi approached Suguha and Alex. "Sorry, it's a habit," Shinichi apologized. "And I'm sorry I missed the ceremony. The police and the American soldiers stopped letting people pass for a while when a boy and girl tried to rush the gates."

"They did?" Suguha asked in surprise.

"Someone rushed the gates?" Alex asked, "why didn't we hear of it?"

"I think they didn't want to have everyone inside panic." Shinichi deduced. "It was pretty scary... there were guns drawn, and I thought someone was going to be shot. Luckily, one of the US Army soldiers managed to tackle both of them before they could get inside."

"That's a relief," Rika said gratefully, "it would've been a bummer to have gunfire over the music!"

"Same here." Scott agreed. "Where they after the president?"

"That would be a logical conclusion," Timothy agreed, "I mean, it's a big deal when the POTUS is a guest in someone's home."

"Who managed to stop them?" Keiko asked. "Just one soldier?"

"Correct." Shinichi answered.

"One soldier?" Kotone pondered on who the one soldier was.

"At first I thought it was Captain America, because he was rushing them and slamming them into the ground and vehicles like rag dolls," Shinichi told them. "However, the soldier looked younger, as if he came fresh out of high school."

"You have any pictures?" Kotone asked.

"Actually," Shinichi got his phone out, "I was videoing out of boredom while waiting." He plays the video that showed the outer perimeter of the Yuuki manor. Alex, Suguha, and Kotone leaned in. At first, all seemed normal in the video. Then suddenly, there were shouts. A bit of Shinichi's voice was heard as there was shuffling on the camera. The second the camera was focused, they see the young soldier managed to tackle a teen in a hooded jacket. It was shocking to see the assailant fly a yard into the side of an MRAP before being pinned to the ground with a knee from the same soldier.

"Whoa!" Rika gasped.

"Wait, who is that?" Kazuto was curious.

"He moves as fast as you, Kazuto." Asuna commented.

"Yeah, he does," Kazuto told her as he watched the video as the same soldier tackled yet another assailant, who was disarmed of her weapons and taken away by the Secret Service. As she was being dragged away, she shouted angrily, uttering both Kazuto's and Asuna's names.

"They were after us," Asuna remarked.

"I thought they were after the president." Kazuto said to Shinichi.

"Apparently not," Shinichi said, "old enemies of yours?"

"Depends..." Kazuto deduced.

"But who was that soldier?" Asuna asked, "it was hard to make him out from under his helmet."

Kotone pondered about the soldier. 'Could it be Damion?' However, it couldn't be him as the soldier was moving at super-human speed and posses super-human strength.

"I guess we have those Rangers to thank again," Asuna smiled to Kazuto.

"As well as the Ranger soldier who managed to thwart their attempted breaching." Kazuto added with a smile. "Captain Burke has chosen very good soldiers."

"Indeed, he has." Rika agreed.

Shinichi then put his phone away, and bowed to Kazuto and Asuna. "Congratulations, Mr. And Mrs. Kirigaya!"

"Thank you very much, Shinichi-kun." Kazuto and Asuna replied.

The boy with glasses was shy, but he just let it out, "I'm just glad that you both have a happy ending!"

Even Suguha was surprised, she knew Shinichi since middle school and he was never this forward.

"Well, thank you, buddy," Kazuto grinned.

"Same here, Shinichi-kun." Asuna smiled. "And very good shooting, protecting Kazuto-kun during the war," Asuna complimented, "I saw the footage of how you covered for many brave fighters with a rifle."

Shinichi felt sheepish from the compliment. "Well... I..." He stammered. "..T-Thanks..."

"Hey, you and all the other ALO players made victory and this happy wedding possible," Alex reached up and patted Shinichi on the elbow, "enjoy that accolade!"

"We're so proud for you, Recon." Suguha added.

"And you know, if you show off more of that side of you, I think you'll get a cute girl flocking to you," Alex added. He turned his attention to see Wendy coming towards their table. She have entrees on one plate and a cake slice on the other place. "Speaking of..."

"Hey Alex and Randy!"

"Hey Wendy!" Alex and Randy called back.

"Mind if I sit here?"

"No, not at all." The Mitchell male cousins moved their chairs so that Wendy can sit next to Shinichi.

Wendy looked at him. "Oh hi," she chimed.

"Hey, Wendy." Keiko greeted.

"Hi, Keiko," Wendy greeted before noticing Shinichi. "Oh, hi there. I don't think I know you."

"W-We've m-met at t-the l-luncheon last m-month." Shinichi stammered.

Wendy giggled. "Of course, I remember meeting you the first time... You're Suguha's friend."

"That's right..." Shinichi nodded, his face was flushing. 'She's so cute looking,' he thought shyly. Wendy, though around Randy's age, she sports short, light brown air and green eyes which shined like emeralds in the light.

"Love the entrees..." Wendy commented.

"Asuna and her family eat well," Randy said. "And I'm assuming that Asuna got her cooking skills from.."

"You can thank Sada for the inspiration," Asuna beamed. "I've watched her cook meals for us for years."

Kazuto smiled. "Clearly, she was a good influence."

"That's amazing to hear." Wendy beamed. She then looked back to Shinichi. "It's good to see you again."

"A-and you too," Shinichi said simply.

Wendy giggles. "I heard about you from my cousins and Suguha," she said, "you really can shoot a rifle?"

"Well..." Shinichi replied sheepishly. "... Yeah, but it's a sniper rifle..."

"But that is no easy weapon to master in the heat of battle," Alex smirked, "and you did so masterfully,"

"Not to mention it was the first time." Randy added.

"Please tell me more!" Wendy was excited. Shinichi, though shy, explained that after Hydra updated the ALO game with the Industrial Revolution update and was given weapons during the Total War of Alfheim. Shinichi quickly joined Kirito and the Howling Platoon to push through the city.

"And I had one of their soldiers... the one they called the Punisher, coaching me on where and how to shoot."

"The Punisher? As in 'Frank Castle' Punisher?" Wendy's eyes widen in surprise. "That's awesome! It's not everyday that someone receiving coaching from the reformed Punisher." She went on explaining that after Castle went on his crusade of vigilantism, Anderson recruited him back in 2017 and has gone through sessions of redemption and to let go of the pain he once suffered.

"And when the civil war broke out, he was actually sent to the Texas front to bolster our loyal troops fighting there." She continued. "Overall, Castle himself completed his journey of redemption and buried the past of his tragedy. And he now serves under Captain Burke and Lieutenant Preston as a squad leader."

"Wow... That's pretty deep." Suguha gasped.

"Yeah, Castle had it hard when he lost his family.." Alex explained.

"But hey, Shinichi got paired with one of the best marksmen of Howler Platoon," Randy grinned.

"Y-Yeah..." Shinichi agreed. "Um... Wendy, is it?"

"Mm hmm." Wendy nodded.

"Ummm...what do you and your brother do here in Japan." Shinichi was shy, but then thought it was too simplistic a thing to ask.

"My father is in the Navy stationed in Japan." Wendy answered. "He's the leader of a helicopter squadron."

"On the USS John F. Kennedy." Randy added.

"Helicopters." Shinichi muttered. "And how long have you been living here in Japan?"

"Since 2017. Our family had to leave the country because of the growing civil unrest. But our dad was made to serve off the West Coast," Wendy said.

"Before or during the civil war?" Shinichi asked, feeling his shyness fall away. "I've heard that much of the American Pacific Fleet defied the order to serve Pacifica."

"During," Wendy nodded, "the 7th Fleet immediately reaffirmed their loyalty to the interim government in DC as the legitimate constitutional authority after Bruce Wilson's swearing in."

"That's good to hear..." Shinichi said. "... at least you were on the winning side."

"True..." Wendy sighed. "Most of us were scared of what was going to happen. Only this time, he can save lives instead of just ferrying them about."

"Our father became a doctor after the war. He still serves in the Navy, only this time, he's serving on the USS Thomas Jefferson."

"Oh... he became a doctor?" Shinichi asked.

"Yep... Though he still answers to the Navy of course." Wendy answered. "And he can still fly as a reserve pilot when called upon."

"Interesting..." Shinichi was intrigued.

"And you? What do you do?" Wendy expressed interest in him.

Shinichi's face flushed upon hearing her interest. But nonetheless, he began.

Meanwhile, Rika then asked, "hey Asuna, can you show us those medals you and Kazuto got?"

"Sure, Rika." Asuna brought out the two medals and showed them to Rika and the others.

"Shiny," Nijika marveled, "so that's the Medal of Freedom."

"It sure is..." Haruto agreed as he observed the medals.

Scott laughed. "So how does it feel to be recognized by the US president?"

"I guess the video tread and you fighting Hydra has finally paid off." Kenji agreed. "You're celebrities for both America and Japan."

"True, though I'm sure that the American celebrity honor still goes to the Captain," Kazuto humbly deferred.

"Hehe, you've forgotten that we started the mission together." Alex chimed in.

"You are not going to discount Alex-kun's contributions, are you onii-chan?" Suguha snickered mischievously.

Kazuto flushed in embarrassment. "N-No... I would never..."

"Don't forget that it was me and Alex-kun that got you off your duff into starting a rescue mission." Sugu added, giggling this time. "You cannot just write us off!"

Alex then busted out laughing. "I guess we're gonna be in the shadows now, Sugu!" He joked.

"Now just wait a minute!" Kazuto blushed. Asuna, on the other hand, was laughing.

"Asuna..." Kazuto felt deflated.

"You know they're just teasing you, Kazuto-kun." Asuna giggled before pulling her husband into a hug. "Come here," Asuna cooed with a kiss to his cheek. Causing Kazuto to blush heavily, but smile as he returns the embrace.

"Asuna..." Kazuto sighed happily.

"And speaking of tease... you owe me a good night," Asuna said seductively.

"Don't worry, Asuna." Kazuto replied with a sly smile. "I will..."

The two had a light, happy blush to their faces. Both of them remember their night together after her proposed to her.

"Um..." Tim whispered, "is it just me, or is the air suddenly getting more... intimate?"

"I know what you mean, Tim." Keiko whispered back. She then began to blush, not just the thought of Kazuto and Asuna getting intimate for their honeymoon. But, for the memories of her nights with Tim back in SAO. Nothing naughty, but the emotions left Keiko blushing.

"Keiko?" Tim asked.

"Oh!" She gasped startled.

"Were you thinking of the time we've spent nights together?" Tim asked sheepishly. Keiko nodded meekly.

Rika then gave Scott a knowing look. "I know those two will get it on..."

"You're telling me..." Scott chuckled. "They must be bursting at the seams. I sure hope they have protection."

"Don't worry," Rika snickered, "my parents and I have that covered in our presents."

This caused Scott to blush. "You a voyeur or something?"

Rika giggled before continuing. "I knew that Asuna and Kazuto would eventually tie the knot in SAO and would one day, do the same in the real world. And I'm their best friend."

Scott looked at the couple, then back to Rika. "Okay..." He shrugged.

Meanwhile, the American President and his First Lady happily talked with the parents of Kazuto and Asuna, all of them flanked by his bodyguards.

"It's great to meet you two, Mr. President and First Lady." Midori smiled.

"Same for you, Minetaka, and Kazuto!" Stephanie chimed, "so wonderful!"

"That's correct, we're so proud for him." Midori added.

"And who better than the girl he fought alongside with for all those hard years?" Inspector Minetaka laughed as he ate some sushi.

"Those two are indeed something." Stephanie agreed. "I cannot imagine what they went through to get to this point... correction, we saw the whole shebang in ALO," Stephanie remembered the broadcasts. All of which caused massive uproar throughout America, Japan, and the rest of the world.

"We are terribly sorry that everyone had to witness the whole war," Shouzou expressed, "and our family was held captive by our own traitorous executive team."

"At least everything's been cleared up and you and Kyouko are innocent of the whole scandal." Midori said.

"But it was my responsibility as patriarch and CEO," Shouzou said, "and because of my failure of judgement, we nearly lost our company and lives. Not to mention we almost lost our daughter to a madman."

"But you both have a lot of people to thank," Bruce softly reminded, "not least of all Mr. Kazuto and the brave soldiers serving under Captain Burke and Colonel Rogers."

"Yes we do, Mr. President." Kyouko agreed. "And despite the trouble and dishonor we may have brought inadvertently, we do thank your for taking time out of your state visit to come see our children... and we also express condolences to you and America for the sons you lost in battle."

"I don't know what we do if Anderson didn't come in and save our company." Shouzou added.

"So that means..." Stephanie was about to ask.

"Right now, RECT Progress is done," Shouzou clarified, "but we have new defense contracts as you know."

"Which is the now combined with Anderson Tech." Bruce added.

"What is it, exactly?" Minetaka asked.

"Well... RECT has contracts with firearm companies in Japan." Shouzou explained. "Or rather, we own one."

"Seburo Firearms." Kyouko said. The President recognized the name from intelligence briefings. Shouzou then explained that after RECT Progress was disbanded, the main company and Anderson Tech held a meeting to discuss the situation for the company.

"Sounds like you are getting into the war business after that debacle," Bruce was rather blunt. The other Japanese adults recoiled a bit at his American frankness, even if he was soft-spoken.

"And not to mention cyber defense and security," Stephanie added.

"It all happened after the second civil war and the collapse of the United Nations." Shouzou replied. "You see, our government... at least the part of it that was not corrupted by Hydra I would think, watched the whole world with great concern."

"With everything that happened," Shouzou continued, "we couldn't afford to risk any war coming to our shores. However, Seburo was in financial trouble as a state run enterprise that could not deliver the results, so the government tendered ownership of Seburo out to the highest bidder."

"And I'm assuming that Hydra tried to get their hands on those weapons." Bruce deduced.

Shouzou and Kyouko then looked relieved. "Our son, Kouichirou, have checked the files at the Seburo headquarters and they're not stolen."

Kyouko then added, "I cannot disclose much, except that the co-owners chose their security wisely."

"That's good to hear." Bruce sighed. The last thing everyone wanted was for Hydra to get their hands on improved weapons. He didn't want to think of the anti-cyborg and anti-Meta guns being used on US troops.

"Certainly keeps my job from getting any harder hopefully," Minetaka shook his head, "I would hate to send my own officers into a meatgrinder as well with the type of criminals we deal with."

Even Midori sighed in relief, she didn't want to think Minetaka losing his life over criminals armed with advanced weapons. It was already worrying enough that Minetaka had requested to Kikuoka to be on the shortlist for any Hydra-related fugitive cases.

"And make the Howler's missions hard as well..." Bruce said. "I've had to console too many families of the Howler Rangers who died to liberate RECT."

Silence fell between the President, First Lady, the Kirigaya, and Yuukis.

"Captain Hernandez was one of them," Shouzou said, remembering that particular Army officer who was mentioned as a casualty.

"He was a good man." Bruce lamented.

"I hear that many of his fellow captains, including Burke, are still taking it hard," Shouzou remarked as he took another bite. Kyouko made a quick glance towards the table Captain Burke's sitting at before resuming her meal.

"I can relate," Minetaka said solemnly, "while Japan's police fatality rate is not as high as most other countries, my line of violent criminal apprehension..." His voice choked somewhat as Midori held his hand.

"It's alright, Minetaka..." She reassured him. "You honor their sacrifices with all the lives you saved and the killers you arrested or put down."

"I know dear..." Minetaka replied. "But sometimes, I wished I was quick enough to get to the criminals and be able to save them.."

"But think about the many other boys and girls enjoying Valentines because of you and those other officers." Midori continued. "That includes our children and daughter-in-law."

"The highest tribute we pay for those who suffered and sacrificed is to live well, Mr. Kirigaya," Bruce related. "That's the key of overcoming loss and grief, something we all learned during our time in the armed forces and after the civil war ended. And I'm sure it is similar in the world of cops and crooks."

"Bruce is right, Mr. Kirigaya." Stephanie added. "Living well is our victory."

Stephanie raised a glass.

"And the best revenge," Kyouko added with a small smile. Minetaka smiled at the reassurance from not only Midori, but everyone around the table.

"Best revenge indeed, dear," Shouzou smiled as he looked wistfully to Kazuto and Asuna kissing. Midori continued to hold Minetaka's hand, smiling towards him.

"So how well does Washington treat you, Mr. President," Shouzou asked.

"It was tough trying to reassure the public." Bruce sighed. He took a long sip. "It' been a rollercoaster of public opinion and political shifts in our own Congress with this new engagement in Japan that we find ourselves in."

"But everything has settled down, right?" Shouzou asked.

"For now," Bruce smiled a bit.

"He wouldn't be president if he could not calm the waters in our coalition," Stephanie sounded proud of her husband. "After all, he guided America during the dark days of the civil war."

"Though I wish my second official term was a tad more peaceful," Bruce added.

"True, but we'll get through it, Bruce." Stephanie said with reassurance. "You have the nation with us. And you have everyone's support as well."

Bruce touched hands with Stephanie. "Why do you say such the sweetest things?"

"Because that's what the wife does. Reassure their husbands through the thick and thin." Stephanie smiled.

"That's what we do best," Midori agreed.

"And it's not doubt our Asuna will do the same for Kazuto." Kyouko looked on. Shouzou closed his eyes as he let himself take in the thoughts of both Kazuto and Asuna. He smiled warmly as the positive energies and thoughts are felt through his mind. Though he did have to suppress a blush from some traces of thoughts involving some... marital intimacy. This also included memories from the SAO game.

'Oh... so you already had some taste, haven't you, dear Asuna?'

"Mr. Yuuki?" The President's voice asked.

Shouzou quickly shook his head. "My apologies, what were you saying?"

"I was agreeing on what our wives have said." He replied. "You spaced out."

"Sorry, I was taking in the moment for our children's future." Shouzou said. "And our newest family seems very eager in their desire."

"I see..." Bruce then smiled. "They're very determined on bringing both their AI daughters into the real world." Shouzou nodded, not wanting the President to know his daughter's other ideas with Kazuto.

Some time has passed before the luncheon was finished. Kazuto and Asuna then stood up as Captain Anderson approached.

"It's time for the wedding couple's first dance," he smiled.

Asuna lit up at that, Kazuto then took Asuna's hand and they together headed towards the dance floor. The whole room watched as the armored dressed victors and lovers took center stage. The light switched on and shined on them, coating them in a soft glow.

Colonel Rogers and Sharon watched with interest.

Then the song began. Kazuto and Asuna listened for it a bit as the lyrics began:

We were strangers, starting out on a journey

Never dreaming, what we'd have to go through

Now here we are, I'm suddenly standing

At the beginning with you .

Asuna's eyes widened as she recognized this. "I heard this song, Kazuto." She whispered. "It's from Anastasia."

No one told me, I was going to find you

Unexpected, what you did to my heart

When I lost hope

You were there to remind me

This is the start.

Kazuto smiled has he held Asuna's hands. Together, they danced as the song continues.

And life is a road and I wanna keep goin'

Love is a river I wanna keep flowing

Life is a road now and forever wonderful journey

I'll be there when the world stops turning

I'll be there when the storm is through

In the end I want to be standing

At the beginning with you .

"Aw..." Momiji cooed as Kenji held her. "That's so adorable." Momiji was a romantic with a soft spot for fairy tale scenes.

We were strangers on a crazy adventure

Never dreaming how our dreams would come true

Now here we stand, unafraid of the future

At the beginning with you

Rika and Keiko stood with Scott and Tim happily as they watched Asuna dance with Kazuto.

"So sweet." Rika suppressed her squeal. Keiko also held back with happy tears flowing from her face.

And life is a road and I wanna keep goin'

Love is a river I wanna keep flowing

Life is a road now and forever wonderful journey

I'll be there when the world stops turning

I'll be there when the storm is through

In the end I want to be standing

At the beginning with you

Kazuto spun Asuna around as he kept his gaze on her. Her hair and dress twirled in the air lightly. She bore a bright smile that made her face shine even more.

Knew there was somebody somewhere

Like me, alone in the dark

Now I know my dream will live on

I've been waiting so long

Nothing's gonna tear us apart.

Colonel Rogers then tugged on Sharon's hand. "May I?"

"Sure, Steve. After the couple have their dance and such." Sharon smiled.

And life is a road and I want to keep going

Love is a river I want to keep flowing

Life is a road, now and forever

Wonderful journey

I'll be there when the world stops turning

I'll be there when the storm is through

In the end, I want to be standing at the beginning with you

Kazuto and Asuna continued to gaze lovely at each other. After everything they've gone through, they were here, starting anew with each other.

---

Outside:

People were gasping and whispering in wonder and love for the newly weds on the screen. While Privates Damion and Jenson were not at liberty, they could not help but sneak a few glances. Secretly, they admitted that the song fit them perfectly.

"Cheesy, but romantic," Jenson whispered.

"You're telling me." Damion whispered back. "Straight out of a fairy tale... A heart-warming fairy tale." He added. It was reassuring for the young soldier to know of some good arising from the mess here in Japan.

The married couple continued to gaze into each other's eyes as the song comes to a close.

Life is a road, and I want to keep going

Love is a river I want to keep going on

Starting out on a journey

Life is a road and I want to keep going

Love is a river I want to keep flowing

In the end, I want to be standing at the beginning (beginning)...

With you...

Mmm.

---

Back inside:

The song ends as the married couple shared a passionate kiss. There was great applause that followed, the light continued to shine above them as the applause continued before dying down.

"Thank you, Kazuto-kun," Asuna cooed.

"You're welcome, Asuna-chan." Kazuto sighed. But they have to give their thanks to Captain Anderson. After all, he did pick the song out for the two of them.

Colonel Rogers and Sharon were happy for the two of them.

"Such the sweetest song for those two." Sharon expressed.

"That song... it really came from this Anastasia movie?" Steve asked, as the movie came out many years after his hiatus.

"Yep. It's a very good movie too. Almost thirty years old." Sharon replied. Sharon then looked around and noticed something missing. "Hey, Steve," she asked, "where is Captain Burke?"

Steve then had a bit of a solemn expression. "He said he needed time to himself."

"I understand." Sharon said with sympathy. She already knew what the young Captain was going through this Valentine's Day. And it's best not to disturb him about it. "He just needs time after... you know."

No further words were said.

Captain Anderson walked up to Kazuto and Asuna. "I can see that you two loved the song I've picked out." He smiled.

Asuna and Kazuto smiled back. "The song was a great choice for us. It was from my favorite movie back when I was a girl," Asuna wistfully said.

"And it was a great song to dance to," Kazuto finished.

"Good to hear." Anderson nodded. There was more clapping. Even their friends cheered them on.

"And I hope everyone is ready to have this next dance alongside us," Kazuto expressed, "it's Valentine's Day after all."

"I think the married couples were suppose to dance with the respected parents." Asuna stated. "Like you with your mother and me with my father."

Kazuto smiled.

"That's true." Anderson agreed. And sure enough, they see both Midori and Shouzou approaching them.

"Mom," Kazuto greeted.

"Father," Asuna said.

"Kazuto." Midori greeted back.

"Asuna.." Shouzou smiled.

"I believe the bride's the one to go first." Midori stepped aside for Shouzou to approach Asuna. They headed to the center and the dance between father and daughter began.

Shouzou danced with a gentle grace leading Asuna.

"I'm very proud of you Asuna," Shouzou says softly. "You've made this old fool a very satisfied and relieved man."

"Thanks, Father," Asuna replied softly. "And thank you for making the wedding possible. It was everything I want for myself and Kazuto and so much more."

"I'm glad that you two love it." Shouzou smiled.

"And I hope you and Mother are too," Asuna said as they danced.

"Indeed, we are." Shouzou starts to think about the very first day his daughter Asuna was born into the world. And now she was a blooming young woman with a husband to boot.

'How she grew up so fast.' Shouzou thought happily.

Kyouko also watched in silent pride. The events that had happened last month felt like a distant memory. 'And all the better with the creature gone,' she thought, 'and great potential with Kazuto-kun.' In the short time she met him, he had impressed her with his intellect and technical skills. As well as his interest of looking into Anderson Tech in the future.

'Just shy of 16, and he's already put up higher spec firewalls around our house computers... at least above ground. And now, he's has displayed super-human capabilities recently.'

She smiled to herself, thinking about how Kazuto had no idea of the kind of family he was entering into... one that could even help to nurture his gifts.

The dance between father and daughter ended. Now, it was Kazuto's and Midori's turn.

"Mom," Kazuto offered his hand.

Midori barely contained her happiness for her son as she took Kazuto's hand and they headed to the dance floor. As the song started, the two began to move.

"We are very proud of you Kazuto." Midori smiled. "You found a wonderful wife in her. Even though we almost thought we lost you, you managed to find love and came back a man." She continued.

"Mom..." Kazuto blushed a bit with a smile.

"And let's not forget those two adorable AI daughters." Midori giggled. "Such little bundles of energy... at least for Yui."

"Strea's more of a bundle of energy than Yui." Kazuto chuckled. "Yui is the sweet little daddy's princess."

"She sure is." Midori agreed.

Asuna smiled for Kazuto as he gently led Midori. She's so happy that both their parents have acquainted with each other.

The gentle song ended as Kazuto finished with a bow and led Midori away from the dance floor. There was applause yet again.

"And there you go, the Groom and his mother." Anderson announced. "And now... the moment all you lovebirds have been waiting for... Gifts from all of us to the two of you."

Kazuto and Asuna were a gentle pink at that. The lights then shined on the large table with all the wrapped presents. It was then that a young woman and young man stepped up to the table. Asuna was surprised to see Naomi Ootomi with a rather cute guy about her age be the likely first to present presents.

"Asuna, Kazuto." Naomi announced. "For you.."

She was given a package by the young man, and she presented it. "Gratitude from my family and boyfriend for saving me," Naomi beamed.

"Thank you," she said with a bow to Naomi and her boyfriend.

"You're quite welcome, Mister and Misses Kirigaya." He replied.

Kazuto smiled as he held the package for Asuna to unwrap the ribbon. After a few moments, the ribbon and wrapping was removed. Asuna opened it. She was surprised to see two sets of military style analog watches.

"Those belonged to my mom and dad, to tell the time when Dad would return home safe from work," Naomi expressed, "Mom believes you both should have them for good luck."

Asuna was touched by Naomi's gift and nodded. "We will were them for your father's memory."

Even Minetaka was deeply touched, remembering the intrepid fellow SIT officer who was brutally murdered by Hydra. This will be a fine way of honoring him.

"Thank you for this, Naomi," Asuna said.

"It's the least we can do to reward you and Kazuto." Naomi replied.

The boyfriend nodded as well. "You both saved Naomi and her brother from certain death."

Kazuto observed one of the watches before adding. "Don't worry, we'll wear these every day."

Naomi and her boyfriend smiled, before going back over towards Kenta and their mother and little sister.

It was Rika's turn to bring out the gifts. "My family and I got gifts for you, Asuna." She chimed. Asuna smiled as Kazuto took the packages. She was about to unwrap when Rika suddenly stopped her.

"It's something for the honeymoon." Rika whispered. "My mom and dad say it's compliments of us Shinozakis."

Asuna felt her cheeks flush upon hearing this. Kazuto also blushed upon hearing this. It was then that Mr. Shinozaki leaned over to mutter to him. "You take good care of that cute miss there, sir," he said, "and have a really good time at it too."

"Make that first impression really stick, young man," Mrs. Shinozaki also expressed mischievously.

Kazuto blushed even more. He managed to stutter the words. "Y-yes, I w-will." He could see where Rika got her tendencies from.

Rika giggles before adding. "You two better have fun tonight." The Shinozakis left the Kirigayas speechless and red.

Anderson snickered before deciding to break the awkwardness. "I have some gifts for you two."

He presented a rather large case. "For the both of you. Especially since Kazuto here is into computers and such." He smiled.

"What is it?" Kazuto asked.

"A new Anderson Tech desktop computer with the holo-gram monitor and keyboard." Anderson answered. Kazuto unlocked the latches and opens the lid. There, he sees the slim desktop harddrive and the strip to display the monitor screen. The whole package felt smooth and light to carry around even. And it looked like the one Asuna has in her bedroom. He also saw the device that resembles the computer mouse.

"Thank you, Anderson-san."

"And that's not all.." Anderson added as he brought out two small boxes.

"Oh..." Asuna wondered. They both see their names on their respected boxes and opened them. Inside they see headsets that resemble large goggles and colored visors. However, the color schemes of the headsets are different. One has the colors of both red and white with the red cross on the side. The other is just black with two crossed swords on each side.

"These are," Kazuto and Asuna gasped.

"AmuSpheres." Anderson smiled, "part of the 2nd generation FullDive VR technology."

It was then that Jennifer Wakeman Anderson strolled up in her light blue metallic dress. "We figured that those would be much prettier and safer for the both of you to use."

The young married couple were surprised to see Jennifer Anderson appear before them.

"Mrs. Anderson," Kazuto and Asuna greeted in unison.

"I couldn't miss the wedding and Valentine's Day with my husband, especially now that he's officially on deployment," Jennifer beamed.

"I hope that the kids aren't scared or disappointed." Anderson sighed. He knew that he'd spend more time with his family after the civil war ended. However, those were upended with the Hydra revelation in Japan, and America stepping up its military and diplomatic pressure as a result of the attacks on its forces.

"Don't worry, hun." Jenny reassured him. "We'll be able to get through this. We did during the Second Civil War. And besides... you've got that hunky Iron Patriot armor to shield your rear."

Anderson chuckled. "You're right dear. And of course, my cousin and young brother are making visits to them while I'm out here.."

"Just be good to both the Colonel and Captain America... they are your effective bosses within the chain of command," Jennifer reminded with a smile. She knew how her husband tended to interact with Captain Burke, so she would constantly remind him to stay out of trouble with him; getting into a row with the son of the USSOCOM general would not earn Anderson favors in the military after all.

"I will dear." Anderson sighed. He knew that she's right.

"Anyways!" Jennifer faced Kazuto and Asuna again. "Hope you two enjoy the gifts my husband had made. He especially had these custom crafted for you both."

Kazuto observed the AmuSphere. He remembered that the RECT Progress division was disbanded last month. Kazuto knew that these had to be the American-contract AmuSpheres.

"Thank you again, Anderson-san." Asuna bowed. "It's wonderful to have your patronage and support."

"It's the least all of us could do for the both of you." Anderson smiled.

Jennifer giggled. "That's my Thomas alright. He's always very supportive of me and the rest of the family."

"I would hope so," Anderson beamed.

Jennifer then playfully poked his chest. "Don't forget who also supported you before, during, and after the war." She said in a honeyed tone.

"Hey," Anderson teased back as he grabbed Jenny by the waist.

Kazuto grinned to himself, thinking of how he and Asuna would tease each other like that.

"Looks like we have another couple that are like us." Asuna whispered in Kazuto's ear, blushing with a smile.

"It appears so..." Kazuto chuckled in agreement.

"Oh and one more thing..." Anderson produced another present, "Captain Burke wanted me to present this to the both of you."

Kazuto and Asuna were surprised, but they took the package and they open it. It was a golden plaque, in Japanese and English.

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage." – Lao Tzu

The Kirigayas were surprised and touched by the message on the plaque.

"The Captain does like to quote many soldiers and leaders of history," Anderson said.

"Where is he now?" Asuna asked.

Anderson paused for a moment before answering. "He needed some time to himself. He won't be available for any of the next dances."

"I see..." Kazuto and Asuna was wondering what he meant.

"All I can say is that... he's not in a Valentines Day spirit."

"Alright then." Kazuto nodded. He could tell for the past number of days something was eating at Chris. While not getting the full picture, but he sensed something was off.

"It's best that we respect his decision." Asuna suggested, not wanting to dwell into it.

"Right, Asuna," Kazuto muttered. "When you see him, tell him we thank him for the gift."

"I will. You kids have fun." Anderson grinned. Kazuto and Asuna looked at the military plaque with Lao Tzu's quote.

"We'll find a spot for this on the shelf." Asuna said. "Chris really knows how to choose his words."

"He sure does, Asuna." Kazuto agreed. "He really must have been a star student at the Academy."

"That he was," Colonel Rogers and Sharon appeared. "Also, I think you two still got more gifts to unwrap." Rogers smiled.

"Colonel Rogers," the married duo said.

"Mister and Misses Kirigaya." Sharon greeted.

"Meet my fiancé," Colonel Rogers smiled, "Sharon Carter from the White House staff."

"Nice to meet you." Kazuto and Asuna greeted with a bow.

"And you both as well," Sharon gave a bright smile, clearly relaxed and happy for this. "We also got gifts for you two as well."

Both Rogers and Sharon brought out the gifts and hand them to the married couple, who opened them.

"Whoa," Kazuto gasped...

"We hope you like them." Sharon smiled. They pulled out figurines of both the new Captain America, the new Iron Man, and the new Iron Patriot.

"Already?" Kazuto was surprised to see these.

"Anderson had them special ordered" Rogers replied.

"Someone is merchandising quickly off your successors," Asuna remarked.

Rogers nodded. "Although, they won't be released until next week. So you two have the first editions."

"So, you're the first to have the set." Sharon added.

"Wow..." Asuna marveled as she looked over the Iron Man and Iron Patriot figures, while Kazuto admired the new Captain America's figure. He then observed the same, retractable shield the Captain America figure sported. Behind the visor was the same stone game face that everyone saw on Chris in action.

Asuna sees that the face plates of both Iron Man and Iron Patriot are removable. She saw Anderson's visage for Patriot, but she had to laugh a bit at Iron Man's.

"What's funny, honey?" Kazuto asked. Asuna pointed towards the Iron Man figure's face. He sees it and he begins to snicker. The face was wrong in some areas, especially the colors.

"I don't think Preston-san would like this." Kazuto laughed. "They made him look like a boy!"

"Hmmm..." Anderson remarked with a smirk. "I guess I'll have to check the merchandise department." Colonel Rogers then looked over his shoulder, thinking of his two subordinate officers.

---

Out in the hallway:

Chris was sitting down in one of the guest chairs when Preston approached.

"You okay, sir?" Preston asked his immediate superior. "I didn't see you back at the party."

Chris looked up to his subordinate. "Don't worry about me. The rest of the party will still be on."

"The Valentine's Day dance, but its not like my wife is here to dance with me," Preston said, missing his wife.

"Sorry to hear that," Chris replied.

"Yeah, well. We usually make up for lost time." Preston added. "But hey, I don't need to be a mind reader to know... I can guess what's happening with you, since we all heard about Hailey."

Chris didn't answer right away. Preston then sat next to Chris.

"I understand that you've taken the news very hard," he said.

"It is a great loss," Chris said, clearly not trying to show emotion.

"Like Colonel Rogers says, we're still searching for her." Preston replied, giving a soft smile to reassure him. "You shouldn't lose hope, sir. And you don't always have to put on a show."

"If I break down, Lieutenant, it would be detrimental to unit morale," Chris protested firmly.

"I understand.." Preston nodded. "But if you need reassurance, the Colonel, Captain Anderson, and I are here for you. ... I'm really sorry about Hailey, but don't give up hope for her."

Silence fell between the two officers. "I'll just sit here a little while with you."

"Thank you, Lieutenant," Chris expressed, "then I should go check on the men."

"Will do..." Preston replied. The two men sat in silence, with Chris just looking away from the happy occasion inside.

---

Back inside:

Kazuto and Asuna had finished their receiving of gifts to the applause of the family and guests.

"Thank you all so very much." Asuna said smiling. There was a bit of blushing as some of her close friends suggested that their gifts were better opened just between her and Kazuto. Those gifts are something the married couple are looking forward to.

Kazuto then took center stage at Anderson's cue.

"And now that the gift exchange is over, everyone's allowed to dance on the dance floor." Anderson announced. "It's our Valentine's Day dance off with your boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, and wives alike, so be merry as Asuna and Kazuto share the spirit of the day with all of you!"

Anderson finishes. "Let the party continue!"

"Yay!"

The groomsmen and bridesmaids are the first to walk onto the dance floor. Alex and Suguha included.

Alex reached out. "May I have this dance with you?"

Suguha smiles before taking his hand. "Sure thing, my Spriggan knight." She fell into his arms as the slow dance song began to play.

Scott held Rika and held her in his arms. "Keep up with me," Rika laughed.

"I will." Scott chuckled. "And I'll be the one leading you!" To prove it, Scott gently spun Rika around.

"Oh!" Rika's dress twirled in the air lightly. She smiled as she went with it.

"Mmmm, my cute blacksmith." Scott cooed.

"Whee!" Rika cheered.

Timothy also led Keiko in a gentle waltz. Being inexperienced, they both went slow.

"Mmmmm... Tim..." She sighed.

"Nice and slow," Tim muttered. He held Keiko's hands gently.

"Thank you, Tim," Silica said, "I like it slow." They fixed their gazes on each other. Kenji held Momiji with one hand as the two twirled in a circle. Haruto hugged Nijika as they went.

Nathan lead Strea onto the dance floor. "So what are we doing?" Strea asked.

"We're gonna be slow dancing." Nathan explained.

"I don't quite get it," Strea tilted her holographic head, "some sort of ritual?"

"Not quite." Nathan chuckled. "It's more of an event for outings and such. I'll show you."

He starts with a slow dance while holding Strea's hands. "Hope your hologram holds form." Nathan smiled.

"It should." Strea smiled. "Anderson-san assures that the solid projectors are up to specification."

"Okay then." Nathan nodded. He then pulled Strea up. Yui gave her a supportive wave and mouthed, "have fun!"

Strea giggled.

Colonel Rogers was beaming as he let his movements blend with Sharon's own and the music. Captain Anderson and Jennifer smiled as they approached the dance floor.

"Just like in high school prom." Jennifer sighed happily.

"Good times," Anderson agreed wholeheartedly. "And God willing so many more after this war is over."

Wendy approached Shinichi and extends her hand to him.

"Mind if we share this dance?" She asked. "I can use a partner."

"S-Sure." Shinichi stammered with a blushing face. Wendy led him out on the floor. Before Shinichi knew it, they're both at the middle of the dance floor.

"I can help you dance," Wendy said. "Just keep up with me." She winked cutely, causing Shinichi to blush even more. She held his hands as they started their slow dance, her short, light brown hair shined from the lights above.

Shinichi blushed. 'She's very beautiful...' he thought. Wendy was a jubilant girl.

"You're doing great." Wendy complimented. She twirled with Shinichi, giggling with delight. Shinichi was surprised as he followed her movements without tripping bad. Her green eyes locked onto his.

"See, you're doing great!"

"I-I am.." Shinichi smiled sheepishly. The two teens continued dancing with the music, Shinichi improves on his dancing skills.

Kazuto led Asuna along, feeling like the happiest survivor in the room. He glanced towards Alex and Suguha, who continue to hold each other as the former led the latter along.

"Kazuto." Asuna teased.

"Asuna..." Kazuto cooed as he turned his attention back to his wife.

"You pay attention to me," Asuna laughed.

"Sorry," Kazuto blushed, "I was just so happy for Suguha as well as for us. I guess that's just the inner husband wishing others the same happiness we have."

Asuna giggles. "I'm happy for our friends too. "

Soon, all the floor was filled with happy and twirling husbands, wives, boyfriends, and girlfriends as almost everyone took a partner. Even their parents joined in on the dancing party.

Kyouko and Shouzou settled into their own.

"Just like our wedding night, dear." Shouzou smiled.

"It sure does, Shouzou." Kyouko admitted. They still remembered their wedding night like it was yesterday, where they were young and happy. And it was indeed a real life union of a princess with the prince whom she knew had protected her the whole time.

And now, they can enjoy it with their extended family.

Inspector Minetaka was cheered on by his teammates as he tangoed with Midori.

"Go Beretta Kirigaya!" One officer cheered. "Don't miss a step, sir!"

Midori giggled from the cheers.

"I don't," Minetaka retorted smartly as he led on. Midori held his hand as he twirled her. Minetaka smiled to himself... he still got it.

"I miss this, Minetaka." Midori said. "You were always very busy in America and Europe after you left the police force. And now, we can celebrate in peace."

"Funny that by returning to the force, I'm much closer back to home than I've ever been," Minetaka mused. Midori twirled again.

"But, it's nice to take a break, once in a while." Minetaka added. Kazuto's close brush with war and death came as hard reminders to his adoptive father about the fragility of peace and joy in this life. But peace, joy, and love is what he, and everyone else, have been fighting for to protect. And even with the prospect of civil war on the horizon, Minetaka would do his darndest to make Japan's future worth one for his children to live in.

Strea was getting the hang of slow dancing, and was able to keep up with Nathan. Her hologram shimmered due to the movements, but kept its form.

"How are you liking it so far, Strea?" Nathan asked.

"For whatever reason, I enjoy it," Strea beamed.

"That's good to hear." Nathan smiled. "Now, I'm gonna twirl you, here we go." Nathan held Strea's hand as she twirls lightly.

"Oh! Whee!" Strea cheered, Nathan smiled as he catches her.

Yui watched the whole thing wistfully. Strea appear to be enjoying herself with Nathan. Yui could not be happier for her little sister.

'Looks like Nathan's keeping true to his word.' She thought happily. It also made her wish she had some boy to dance with, but she was content for her family right now.

Kenji continued to dance with Momiji. "So how am I doing?" Kenji asked.

"You're doing very good." Momiji answered. Her red hair was darker in real life, yet she carried her movements with as vibrant a personality as ever. Her pink dress was a definite signature that she carried over.

"I'm glad you love it." Kenji smiled. He was relatively plain, dressed in conservative black suit and tie. "And you look pretty in that pink dress." He admitted.

Momiji had a tinge of pink on her face as she smiled. "Thanks, and you look so handsome in the suit." She added. Kenji had to keep himself composed as his childhood friend gave him this attention.

"Thanks, Momiji." He smiled.

As for Haruto and Nijika... it turned out that both were novices. Nijika felt herself twirl lightly before her eyes meeting with Haruto's. However, the both of them stumbled a bit. But they quickly regained their balance.

"Oh! Gotta be careful." Nijika laughed.

"Sorry about that," Haruto grunted, "I'll make up."

"As long as you don't step on my toes," she joked.

Kazuto and Asuna took center stage as everyone danced around. Even Naomi was happy with her boyfriend as her brother Kenta watched with many others from the side. Naomi held onto her boyfriend happily. For a while, her mind is at peace.

Meanwhile, Randy found himself keeping company with Klein and the other bachelors.

"Hard to believe, isn't it?" Shigeru observed the party.

"It sure is." Randy replied.

"I mean, almost everyone that we know are with their respected partners." Shigeru continued. "Even your sister has a date as well..."

Klein groaned to himself. "Still can't believe all the girls have been taken. I even tried to hook up with the former leaders of the Sylph and Cait Sith guilds. What does a samurai have to do to get a good lady!?"

"Trying not to be rash, for starters." Shigeru rolled his eyes. "And not being a perv..."

"A perv?" Klein gasp. "I would never!"

Randy shook his head. "Oh come on, Klein. Remember that one time you tried to hit on Asuna?"

"And numerous other girls after?" Shigeru added.

"That was the one time!" Klein defended. The two boys snickered.

"I'm sure it was." Randy snickered.

---

Meanwhile outside:

Sgt. Ramirez watched as Frank Castle's soldiers relieved his soldiers for their break. Damion had been keeping an eye out for any more of the punk teen attackers. He found none and the situation was quiet.

"Come on greenies, we've got our lunch break," Corporal Vance said.

Damion nodded as he followed with the others. Sergeant Ramirez bumped fists with Castle. The latter glanced Damion following with the Rangers.

"That kid is something." Castle commented.

"You heard?" Ramirez asked.

"Everyone's been talking about how he took down those teen punks with ease." Castle answered. "And not just take them down, but slam them against the MRAPs like rag dolls." The Punisher gestured to one of the MRAPs, which was a bit dented in its armored side.

"Though, it does beg the question how he was able to manifest such strength and speed." Castle added. "You're sure the assessments properly pegged him as a natural?"

"I'm positive." Ramirez answered. "But it could be connected by that syringe Deadpool gave him last month."

"Ah yes, that medicine," the Punisher recalled. "Any idea what it could be?"

"I don't know, I thought you'd know better than me," Ramirez retorted.

"Well... Knowing Deadpool, or Wade Wilson, he's known for having possession of various unknown items. Most of which are in question as they're military-grade weapons and items. That also includes former companies such as Hammer Industries, AIM, and the former United Nations Peacekeepers."

"That's a lot of firepower, hombre," Ramirez remarked.

"You said it." Castle agreed. "While he did provided help for us. There's no telling what else he has in his inventory."

"Anyways, you should get a break, soldier," Castle urged.

"Righto, but I want to see what's up with those little punks Burton ran down," Ramirez pointed over to the USSS command truck.

"Not sure. They kept mentioning two names. Kirito and Asuna." Castle shook his head. "Don't look like Hydra agents from what I can see."

Ramirez just shrugged and walked over towards the van. "Permission to enter the trailer," he asked one of the Vector-wielding agents.

"For what purpose?" One of the agents asked.

"For interrogating the prisoners," Ramirez answered.

"We have an interrogator working on them," the agent replied.

"Any idea who they are and why they wanted to kill Kazuto and Asuna?"

The agent just shook his head. "They kept cursing their names and wishing death on them. Other than that, nothing else."

"I see..." Ramirez pondered. He then said, "nonetheless, I would like to see them."

"I don't think-" the agent tried to protest. However, Ramirez continued. He barged into the trailer.

"I want to talk to the prisoners."

"Hey, who are-"

"Sergeant James Ramirez of the Howler Platoon."

"You can't be in here," a female agent told him.

"I want to know why those two are trying to infiltrate and kill Kazuto and Asuna." Ramirez said.

"But-"

"I am a high level subordinate of Captain America and his 1st Company," Ramirez retorted, "and the fact that my bosses are inside the secure perimeter does make it my business."

The female agent sighed. "Very well then. But I will ask you to leave your rifle out of the interrogation room."

"Muchas gracias," Ramirez mouthed as he passed his rifle to the agent brushed past, taking off his helmet. He also took out his pistol and left it with the rifle.

"You may now enter," the agent said. "Bear in mind that we do have an active interrogator inside."

"Thanks." Ramirez enters inside and sees the prisoner being interrogated. It was the boy, who was being faced down by the Secret Service. The boy remained silent. There was a moment of silence before the agent spoke up again.

"Why were you trying to infiltrate the wedding? We could have killed the both of you if not for that soldier."

The punk boy remained silent. The agent sat up. "Look, you both are already in trouble, so you better fess up."

Ramirez whispered to the agent. "Ask him if they're working for Hydra. Narrow it down."

The agent then asked the boy again. "Who are you two working for? Hydra?"

The boy did not respond.

"It's best that you fess up. As you and your girlfriend will be spending a lot of time in the slammer. Ten Rings? Blue Cosmos?"

The boy began to laugh. "Blue Cosmos? We were inspired by them and the Ten Rings. We have no alliance with anyone except our own."

"Then why were you after Mister and Misses Kirigaya," Ramirez then butted in, "and don't muck with me, because I now have an MRAP dented, and I'll see that you are billed for it."

"You mean, your American soldiers dented it." The boy sneered. "Very typical. Always blaming others instead of themselves."

"Watch it bub," Ramirez retorted, "that MRAP costs more than you'd be willing to bet. I can play real rough."

"Sergeant, watch what you say," the interrogator glared at him.

Listen to what your agents are saying," the boy laughed.

"They're not the boss of me," Ramirez smirked, "the Colonel and Captain America, and my President are."

"And how would they take it? One of their soldiers bullying a kid like me." The punk expected Ramirez to recoil in embarrassment...

However, Ramirez just glared at him. "I've killed murderous punks like you when they bombed and shot my men in the back. So, you're no different than those I've fought during the civil war. So try me, I dare you..."

"Sergeant," the interrogator tried to protest, but Ramirez just continued the bad cop act.

"Even if you did somehow run past me and all these ladies and gentlemen," Ramirez taunted, "you'd be dead from my boys before you can even hit the sidewalk."

The punk boy fell silent after that statement.

Ramirez then leaned over the table. "Now, we're gonna ask you again. And this time, don't falter. Who are you with?"

The punk boy hesitated at first. "What makes you think I fear death, American? My friend and I have embraced it!"

"Wrong answer..." Ramirez growled as he grabbed the punk by the shirt. Causing him to yelp in surprise. Ramirez pinned him face first against a wall to the protest of the interrogator. He also managed to grab the punk's forearm and held it in a vice grip.

"Sergeant, enough!" The interrogator protested.

"Who are you with?!" Ramirez demanded. He twisted hard, "answer me or this will get really painful!"

The punk boy yelled in pain. "C-Coffin! L-Laughing Coffin!"

"Never heard of them! Explain who they are!" Ramirez squeezed hard.

"Hey, you cannot just do that to our prisoner!" The interrogator scolded, but was ignored.

"I-It's our guild b-back in SAO!" The punk boy cried. "That bastard and his whore destroyed us! We would've won if it hadn't been for you nosy Americans!"

Ramirez growled as he hit the boy's head against the siding.

"Alright! That's enough!" The interrogator shouted.

"SAO ended last year, boy," Ramirez retorted. "Whatever your goals were are a lost cause, give up. It's time to live in the real world with real consequences."

"Fine! Fine! Just let me go, please!" The punk boy begged.

"I think it is time for you to leave, Sergeant," the Secret Service agent had enough.

"That's okay, I think we've got more than enough from this punk." Ramirez said as he lets the boy go.

Another agent came in and pulled Ramirez out. "You've done enough, sir. Get out."

Ramirez complied and left the trailer with the agent escorting him out. He was handed back his helmet and weapons. After that, Ramirez then rejoined with the Howler Platoon.

The Secret Service commander was glad to be rid of the sergeant. "Damn Howlers, thinking they are so high and mighty..."

"Commander," another agent came up, "we have a request to transfer custody."

The commander sighed. "Who is it from?"

"From the President," the agent replied. "He says that a Mr. Kikuoka from the Japanese government is asking that we hand our two detainees over."

"Very well then. Get them out of here."

"Yes sir."

---

Back Inside:

Kazuto and Asuna were having the time of their lives with the rest of their friends as they danced the afternoon away. The music was then switched to a upbeat version. The violins and piano tunes in the song added to the married couple's more strident pace.

Asuna giggles as she was twirled to the music.

Rogers himself took center stage with Sharon, showing off his best old fashioned dance moves from the 1940s.

"Oh Steve, you know that dancing style hasn't been used in decades." Sharon giggled.

"Consider it a blast from the past," Rogers winked.

"Indeed, it is, Steve." Sharon smiled. "Indeed, it is."

The crowds applauded the dancing couples as they picked up the pace. Nathan guided Strea through the fast-pacing dance.

"Easy, my hologram can only take so much," Strea warned, though she was cheery.

"Don't worry, Strea. I'll be as gentle as I was." Nathan reassured her with a smile. "We don't need to go very fast."

Strea smiled. "Sure thing, Nathan-kun."

Nathan and Strea were content to let many of the others pass around them as they went at their own pace.

Anderson and Jenny were having a blast with each other. Jenny danced with wild abandon with Thomas following along.

"Try to keep up, Thomas." Jenny chimed.

"I am," Thomas said as he was swung around. "Hey! Easy now!" He laughed. "I don't have a cyborg body, and I did not bring my suit!"

"Sorry, hun'." Jenny giggled as she sets her husband down. "I won't break you!"

"I hope not." Thomas teased, before giving Jenny's lips a quick peck. Even the American President, the Japanese PM, and their wives were having a good time. Including the Kirigayas and the Yuukis.

Kazuto and Asuna almost lost themselves in their little world of music and intimate dancing.

"I can't wait for tonight, Kazuto..." Asuna whispered seductively.

"Well, me neither... and I will make your first time a really good one," Kazuto promised.

"I'll hold you to that, dear." Asuna teased while gently poked his nose with her finger. Kazuto grinned as he leaned towards the floor with Asuna under him in a dramatic stretch. Asuna squeaks in surprise, but then giggles. She now could not wait for tonight.

---

Later that day:

Kazuto and Asuna were led out of the mansion to an adoring crowd outside. Security remained tight, though everyone has enjoyed the reception. Cheers erupted as Asuna's neighbors and other friends saw her and Kazuto.

'This is the best day of our lives.' Asuna thought happily.

"You've got a fanbase," Kazuto laughed as he held Asuna.

"Hehe, you forgot you have a fanbase too," Asuna giggled before planting a kiss on his cheek. That got the neighbors cheering, and the media was capturing it on camera. It'll be the image everyone will remember for many generations to come.

Captain Burke, Lieutenant Preston, and Colonel Rogers cleared the way. Alex, Sugu, and the others were behind Kazuto and Asuna. They waited respectfully for the married couple as they have their moment in the sun.

"So where are they going?" Suguha asked both of Asuna's parents.

"We have a room reserved at one of the luxurious hotels in Tokyo." Kyouko answered.

"And it so happens to be where President Wilson and his wife are staying as well," Shouzou added, "so there will be Secret Service around as a deterrent."

"Alright then." Suguha smiled.

"I just kind of hope they don't get too used to the protection," Alex joked.

"To answer that question, young man," the President himself surprised Alex, "they are both still indeed under our protection. Both Asuna and Miss Ootomi are intelligence assets on Hydra."

"I see." Alex surmises. It was a bit cynical to refer to his friends as intelligence assets, but the current situation outside of the wedding was out of Alex's control. Hopefully, Asuna and Kazuto could have at least one more day's worth of peace from the real world and military intelligence.

"I sure hope that they enjoy the gifts." Rika whispered to Scott. She snickered mischievously, causing Scott to blush from the thought. It was still a bit much to think of, even from SAO. He and Rika only heard about those two purchasing a log cabin on the 22nd floor.

Meanwhile Naomi was surrounded by her brother and boyfriend as she watched Asuna happily. It was respite in the midst of the chaos of the past month.

'I'm so proud for you, Asuna.' Naomi thought.

"So we've got Mr. and Mrs. Beater... figures," Kenta said, though it was hard to tell if he was joking or not. But it did attract Naomi's attention as she made a glance towards him.

"Are you serious?" Naomi's tone of disapproval could be heard, despite being hushed.

"Sorry..." Kenta said sheepishly, realizing that now's not the time for snippets or remarks. Having been Kibaou, he forgot how much of an influence his little sister was on him. So he remained quiet afterwards.

Naomi's boyfriend, Watari held her contentedly, just happy that she was alive and well.

"I bet that some of the royalty weddings of past times would pale in comparison with Asuna's wedding." Watari whispered to her. "I mean, they pulled out all the stops! Were there any couples get married that young?" He smiled cheerfully.

"Well, in ancient times, yes," Naomi said.

"That's true." Watari chuckled. "Just thinking..." He placed his arm around Naomi and held her. "Maybe one day for us."

"Yes... We'll have a wedding for the two of us." Naomi smiled.

"But neither of you are of age yet," Kenta reminded, "just shy of two to three years."

"I know, we're not planning on getting married anytime soon, Kenta-niisan." Naomi replied. "But Watari and I have plenty of time."

"And better bide that time," Kenta huffed, "because now that I'm the man of the family, I will remind you just as Dad did that there will be no fooling around. You two had better not get any ideas of eloping or anything after today."

"Don't worry, Kenta-san," Watari reassured, "we'll behave."

"Onii-san," Naomi blushed, realizing that her hiatus from her big brother's nagging was over.

Nathan and Strea held each other.

"Too bad Yui and I cannot follow..." Strea sighed, "but to see them like this." She could still smile.

"But at least we had a great time." Nathan smiled.

"Hopefully one day, when our technology is advanced enough to bring you and Yui into our world as human beings, we can have this."

"And we can be with mom and dad." Strea hugged Nathan.

"That's right," Nathan held Strea's flickering hand. "And we'll be together in the real world and can do a lot of things together. I'll even take you places."

"That sounds awesome." Strea chimed. "And I'll have more siblings and together, we can be one big happy family."

Kazuto and Asuna were waving to everyone on the street. The crowd clapped and cheered for the young married couple. Chris suddenly handed Kazuto a bullhorn. "I don't know why," he shrugged, "but the Doc thought you should have it."

Kazuto was surprised, but he thanked Chris and took the bullhorn. Asuna looked at him with wonder and encouragement. Kazuto cleared his throat, brought the bullhorn up to his mouth, and began to speak. "Hello everyone!"

Cheers were heard from the crowd before dying down for Kazuto to continue. "Friends and neighbors of my bride... We thank you for attending to our wedding this Valentine's Day... and for giving my Asuna here approval and support."

Asuna waved to the crowd.

"We love you, Asuna!"

"Congratulations!"

Kazuto offered the bullhorn to Asuna as she speaks. "Thank you all very much. While I know some of you are surprised that I married Kazuto, given former family arrangements... But I'm so glad that the worst has passed and now we can look towards a bright future together. Kazuto saved me more times and brought me purpose and happiness more times than I could count."

Asuna stroked Kazuto's cheek.

"And I thank him for all the happiness we shared together. And nothing in this world can change my hopes for the future with him."

The crowd cheered as Asuna finished her speech. Both Kazuto and Asuna smiled with pink in their cheeks. With the former holding the latter closer to him as he took back the bullhorn.

"And with that, a very Happy Valentine's Day everyone!"

The crowd cheered once more as Kazuto hands the bullhorn back to Chris.

"Well then, milady," Kazuto told Asuna in jest, "shall we?"

"Yes Kazuto... To our honeymoon..." Asuna's cheeks went pink as she took his hand.

Chris approach Castle. "Is the convoy ready?" He asked Castle.

"Yes sir," the black-clad ranger confirmed, "we are ready to be oscar mike."

"Good." Chris nodded. "We should be leaving in five minutes."

"And after we hand them over to the Marines at the destination... get your men rested," Chris ordered, "we resume Operation Finalizer offensives at o'four hundred hours tomorrow."

Castle gave Chris a look. "We have more targets already."

"That we do, Punisher," Chris was serious, "get to it, soldier."

"Yes sir," Castle saluted before heading towards the convoy. Colonel Roger nodded affirmingly. "Captain, I leave it in yours and Lieutenant Preston's hands. I will be returning to HQ after this."

"We won't let you down, Colonel." Chris saluted. Chris then turned to Preston. "Stay with Ramirez, and prepare to return to base once the POTUS is offsite. I will oversee Castle's escort."

"Will do, Cap." Preston nodded.

"Get some rest too. O'four hundred hours tomorrow," Chris told him.

"Yes sir." Preston acknowledged with a salute.

"Get ready to put the armor and hurt on again," Chris told him as he donned his dress cap as he walked with Castle. Preston pressed a button on his wrist and checks the armor status to see its energy is at full capacity.

"I'm always ready, Cap," he muttered to himself.

Five minutes later, Kazuto and Asuna are ready as they loaded the other gifts into the MRAP. It was a tactical decision on the part of both Captain Burke and Seijirou Kikuoka to have them in an undistinguished MRAP to throw off any would-be bombers or snipers.

Rika showed concerns at the possibility of having the gifts her family got for them would be wasted. Though it was at the moment a bit disappointing that Kazuto and Asuna were being transported in standard military vehicles rather than Sada's family limousine. However, with the threat of Hydra still present, they can't afford to take any chances. Based on what Scott told her about the military and VIP protection, it was common to disguise their protectees in identical vehicles to deter bombings and sniper attacks.

"I guess we'll have to get more gifts for them if Hydra does try to take pot shots at them." Rika sighed.

"Like what?" Keiko asked her friend.

Rika shrugged and almost jokingly suggested, "vibranium-laced bulletproof vests?"

"I wouldn't be surprised since Anderson Tech makes use of vibranium resources." Kotone said.

"But that stuff is rare and expensive!"

"Don't think it's that rare." Momiji chimed in. "Vibranium has been steadily increasing in supply with new deposits being discovered. Not to mention Wakanda has opened a trade with Anderson Tech in the past."

"Might not be a bad idea, Rika," Scott teased. "Or maybe those advanced Iron Man suits." Scott added.

"Yeah," Randy snorted a laugh, "that is if ITAR and the Pentagon allow that."

"Well, Anderson did built an Iron Man suit of his own before the civil war." Kenji chimed in. "And had vibranium upgrades to them. This also included a couple of suits for Preston and Castle."

"That was because he is an American citizen and authorized arms contractor," Randy corrected, "I meant that exports of such weaponry is either highly controlled or prohibited depending on the national security assessment, hence ITAR, the International Traffic Arms Regulation. Not to mention that the President himself would have to sign off on such things that high level."

"You're probably right." Kenji shrugged. "After all, America's still rebuilding from the civil war."

"And trust me, with the tenuous relationship he has with some of the brass as a captain, the last thing Anderson needs is legal trouble they can pin on him," Randy added, "believe it or not, there are other officers in the military who are not such admirers of the man."

"Were they, by any chances, allies with Pacifica or the New England separatists?" Haruto asked.

Scott shook his head. "Nah... just some guys who either don't like him bending around the chain of command," he laughed, "I mean, he left the Air Force as a captain, then comes back a captain, but with significant political and industrial influence... the guy should be a general, or even a senator by now."

"Who knows." Randy shrugged. "Maybe one day, he may become a senator. Heck, probably president of the United States. I mean, the symbols of the new US government were his idea. He even tried to have the Free States flag be the flag of the New United States."

"Well, he might have some major competition with Steve Rogers," Momiji said with a smile, "now that would be one race that I would actually care to watch!"

"More like race for nominee. As both of them are pro-Constitution Party." Randy reminded, remembering that the new two-party system for America. The Constitution Party and the Libertarian Party.

That got some laughs out of the group.

Meanwhile, as Kazuto and Asuna were settled in, Captain Burke took his seat in another MRAP with Castle's men. Castle himself took his passenger seat in the front of the formation.

Chris talked into his radio. "Bravo Team, this is Howler 7-1 Actual, move out."

"Copy that, Howler 7-1 Actual," With that, Castle's Howlers were on the move as police cleared the path. Everyone waved 'goodbye' to the married couple as the MRAP convoy leaves the Yuuki manor. Shouzou, Kyouko, Minetaka and Midori also happily waved.

Soon, the convoy leaves the neighborhood.

---

Half an hour later...

SAO Task Force HQ, Kikuoka's Office:

Kikuoka was back in his office after his visiting the wedding. With him are President Bruce Wilson, Prime Minister Satoshi Isagura, Colonel Steve Rogers, and several military leaders, both American and Japanese via video conference from his laptop.

"Good evening gentlemen," Kikuoka greeted.

"Evening." Everyone greeted in unison.

"Now that we had the wedding ceremony out of the way, let's get down to business."

The Prime Minister of Japan went first. "The situation against Hydra is low for the moment. But we can't guarantee that they've given up."

"Nonetheless, I've ordered my internal auditors to thoroughly check our security services for infiltrators in the ranks based on the information Asuna Yuuki volunteered to us."

"I too have done the same to be safe with my own department," Kikuoka said. He then took of his glasses and rubbed them a bit to distract a bit from the feeling of shame. He was reluctant to admit on call with foreign officials that he had found and arrested many low level staffers who were leaking confidential information as Hydra spies.

"We've also made plans to increase security for the SAO survivor school." Rogers added.

"What is that?" One general asked.

"It's a school located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo. Designed for those who were still in school by the time they were trapped in SAO." Rogers explained. "Mr. Kikuoka here told me about this."

"Yes I did," Kikuoka said, "but in light of... recent events, we are having to expand our enrollment to those involved in the War in Alfheim in Alfheim Online. Many are still minors whose data has been collected by Hydra, and I've been getting reports of kidnapping attempts and attacks on both SAO and ALO survivors by suspected Hydra elements."

"I also have Anderson Tech Industries make renovations with the SAO Survivor School to house more students." Kikuoka continued. "This also includes adding a few military outposts and adding a generator for a vibranium shield."

A Japanese general seemed miffed. "Did you consult with our domestic zaibatsus before going forth with this American corporation? These kinds of things should be consulted with the rest of the Self Defense Forces."

"From what Anderson reported, both his company and RECT, which Shouzou Yuuki's CEO of, have made arrangements to help rebuild." Rogers answers. "I'm sure your Prime Minister would accept that as long as RECT takes the lead with most of the ground work."

"Japan's security is the responsibility of the JSDF," the general replied, "remember that you and your Rangers are guests in this country."

"I'm aware of that, general." Rogers acknowledged.

It was then that a certain USSOCOM commander then interjected, "and it ended up taking Captain America, Iron Man, and the good old howling boys to expose Hydra inside Japan, general."

Even Colonel Rogers seemed to be taken a bit aback by the sudden appearance of the blocky-shouldered, stone-faced US Army general responsible for strategic special operations. "General Burke, sir."

"That indeed, General Burke." Kikuoka nodded.

However, the Japanese generals did not seem to appreciate that. And were about to say so when Prime Minister Satoshi Isagura spoke up. "General Samuel Burke, is it?"

"Correct, Prime Minister."

"This is our special operations chief," President Wilson introduced, though he himself seemed a little taken aback with the general's demeanor. It had been weeks since Captain Chris Burke was acquitted from charges.

"Please excuse his choice of words."

"No need to apologize on my behalf, sir," General Burke replied. "Now, as we were... Captain America, Iron Man, and the rest of the Howlers have exposed Hydra from the inside."

"However, based on the intel the 7th Platoon confiscated from RECT servers and was volunteered to us by cooperative employees with our Japanese counterparts, our long campaign against Hydra has only begun. Capturing their supreme commander was a major strike, but he's but a part of the entire Hydra network being uncovered in Japan itself." Old Sam leaned forward. "That being said, under the authority of my president, I am ordering the extension and expansion of the scope and capabilities of special operations in Japan to root out and eliminate this threat."

Another JGSDF leader then gave General Burke a deep stare. "And what assurances do we have that your Howler Platoon Rangers and your son will ensure that no innocent Japanese citizens are further harmed in their operations?"

"I too must voice my concerns," another Japanese added, "our intelligence has informed us on the exploits of your son and these Rangers in counter-insurgency tactics, and I cannot help but note that they have a rather... notorious reputation for aggressive and brutal tactics against their targets. How do we know that innocent civilians will not be caught up wherever you deploy them?"

President Wilson and Kikuoka turned to Sam Burke, who remained calm after facing such a challenging question. "Do you want the truth?" He asked, undeterred by the glares of his Japanese counterparts.

"Yes, we want to know." The JGSDF leader replied.

General Burke then gave it. "I cannot guarantee that there will be absolutely no casualties... because war can take on a life of its own..." That response seemed to get some exasperation from his colleagues and counterparts. "However, if you ladies and gentlemen allow me and these fighting men to do the job of quickly and brutally killing these snakeheads, I will be doing my darndest to bring this operation to a decisive end."

Rogers sighed... like father like son, the Burkes were not a particularly diplomatic brood.

Silence filled the chat room after Sam Burke's response.

"You are as frank as they say, General Burke" the Japanese Minister of Defense said, "but that is hardly reassuring."

President Wilson then interjected. "He is a highly qualified and insightful commander... Which is why I've selected him and others to oversee the missions against Hydra. You will find no better veteran general for the job."

The Japanese Minister of Defense remained silent, pondering of the US President's words. "Very well... but I will hold you to your words, General Burke."

"Now... about the families of both SAO and ALO survivors." He added.

It was Kikuoka who spoke up. "The families of both SAO and ALO survivors are under protection by both the Virtual Division and the Howler Platoon. I have my men providing covert surveillance and security, while Howler Platoon and our Special Forces Group take more proactive action against identified Hydra agents and cells."

"This also includes the Kirigayas, the Yuukis, the Mitchells, and their neighbors."

"And in terms of population, what are we looking at?" A US general asked.

"Well, a rough 6,000 players survived SAO, and the number of those who played ALO. A small number of them are from SAO." Kikuoka calculated. "However, factoring in the ALO survivors... we are talking at least two to four million players at minimum, not counting family and associated bystanders."

The American general seemed to be a bit floored.

"Now that's a real snafu on your hands, my Japanese counterparts," General Burke was blunt in the middle of his colleague's silence.

Kikuoka suspected that kind of response. Especially since he and the others came from the second civil war a few years ago. "I would not have said it that way... but yes, General Burke."

"How soon will Anderson Tech be finished with the Survivor School?" Isagura asked.

"Anderson had a head-start on the renovation of the school." Wilson answered. "So, it shouldn't take more than a month or so."

"But that is only Tokyo," another American general pointed out. "Any word about the reconstruction of the Yokota Air Base?"

A USAF colonel answered. "Reconstruction is well underway. But it sustained heavy damage nonetheless. It will not be operational by this spring as we had hoped."

"Any idea when reconstruction will be complete?"

The American shook his head towards the Japanese who asked that.

"I see..." The JGSDF General frowned. "So, the US Air Force base in Japan will be remaining in Okinawa for a time being," he surmised.

"That is unless you're willing to host an alternate site for the transport of our troops and weapons for mainland aerial operations," President Wilson then said, "with Yokota out of commission, we will not be able to send reinforcements to your mainland unless we can have an alternate site to expedite the transfers."

"We'll see if we do have an alternate site on standby." Prime Minister Isagura said. "I could propose one of the major international airports in the vicinity of Tokyo if that will suit your mission needs."

"I will have the Air Force assess the security of these proposed sites once you send them to me," the President replied. "And make modifications such as adding barracks and an armory. Probably be set up inside the airport itself."

"We would be happy to accommodate your Air Force inspectors with our own," the Prime Minister said.

"May I bring up a point about these Survivor Schools while we're still talking?" Colonel Rogers interjected with a raised hand.

"Go ahead." Wilson nodded.

"If the SAO and ALO survivors are being targeted for kidnapping or death by Hydra," Rogers raised, "it would make too much sense for Hydra to target them in concentrations and gatherings..."

"I've taken the liberty of asking Captain Anderson regarding that possibility." Wilson answered. "And he's reassured me that the security for the survivor school is top notch. And since he was given the assignment, many of these schools will fall under joint USAF and JSDF control, with the US Army in a support role as well."

"Very well, then." Rogers nodded. "That should keep my troops free for offensive operations."

"And to keep the students safe." Wilson added.

"Those children are the future of Japan," a Japanese general concurred.

"And also, the future of the whole world." a American general added. "Especially since most of them are gifted..."

Now they were wading into the Inhuman/Metahuman controversy...

However, the Japanese Minister of Defense spoke up. "We must be mindful that the general public in Japan are still fearful of any Inhumans. There are those that regard the SAO survivors with suspicion now that Kazuto Kirigaya and Asuna Yuuki have displayed superpowers."

"I understand about your concerns regarding individuals with superpowers." Wilson said. "And I too have my concerns..."

"Which is why we should have anyone with superpowers be protected." The Japanese Minister of Defense finished.

"And they need to be monitored," another Japanese officer said, "it's too early to say if they can be trusted."

"We could share some advices we used for our Superhero Protection Program," a American officer added. After Wilson took control of the White House after the coup, he enacted several programs for the New US Government. The Superhuman Protection Program was one of them, modeled after the Israeli version when they opposed the Sokovia Accords.

"What kind of advice?" the JGSDF officer asked. "Like countermeasures?"

"Not against Inhumans." the American officer explained. "Just training that'll teach them how to control their powers and such."

That did not seem to please many of the Japanese officers.

"I understand that the Sokovia Accords have left some scars in the past." The American officer continued. "But we can't allow anyone to get hurt, whenever they're Inhuman or not. It is not the fault of any of these survivors that some of them are showing gifts."

"Say for yourself Rogers," one of the Japanese retorted, "just look what Inhumans did to large sections of your country. Not to mention what happened in Sokovia ten years ago."

"We will not have a repeat of Inhuman flareups and insurgencies in Japan," a Japanese general stated. During the 2010s, the rise of Superheroes and Inhumans became alarming to the whole world. Especially after the alien invasion of New York City back in 2012. Japan was known to have taken a more hardline stance in regards to domestic policy. This also included immigration during the whole situation between 2018 and 2020.

"I can assure everyone of of you, that none of those kids mean any harm," Rogers politely but firmly protested. "If they received proper training, they can be useful of helping society as well as protecting civilians."

"Let us handle our children's domestic affairs, Rogers."

It was then General Burke spoke up. "Hey, if you alienate them just because they are biologically different, you're not exactly going to gain new allies. In fact, that would cause a repeat of the civil war like before. How is that supposed to help against Hydra?"

The Japanese Minister and officers remained silent as Burke continued. "Look, I get that many of you do not like Metahumans. However, we shouldn't be shunning them as they're just as human as everyone in this room. And I say this as someone whose men have been saved by Metas... even I myself have been saved by such beings."

"You have?" One Japanese officer asked.

"That I have," General Burke said. "Before and during the Civil War. So trust me when I say not to make enemies of them when there is no justification for doing so."

There was a long pause.

"Very well..." the Prime Minister said, "we will consider it."

"Thank you." Burke nodded. He wanted to execute a focused campaign against Hydra without side complications after all.

"Right, anyone else want to offer suggestions?" President Wilson asked. There was no answer.

"I guess everything's decided."

Kikuoka nodded. "Thank you Mister President of the United States."

Slowly, everyone begin to log off and end the video connection. However, both Kikuoka and Rogers remained on the line.

"Mr. Kikuoka, about those two intruders my unit handed over to your people..." Rogers began, "why the insistence and urgency?"

"Because there's been some troubling evidence regarding those two intruders." Kikuoka answered.

"I got a report from my Rangers that they are supposed to be some sort of death cult from Sword Art Online," Rogers clasped his hands on his desk, "would you care to elaborate on this Laughing Coffin?"

Kikuoka began. "Laughing Coffin formed in the first few months of SAO. They were... a group of players who thought it was fun to kill others in the middle of a real death game. While some of them did it for the enjoyment, others who have gone insane from the first few months joined them as they believed that they'll die anyway."

Rogers narrowed his eyes... a death cult. "How many members did they had before the game cleared?"

Kikuoka pursed his lips. "Unfortunately, we have scarce intel... The only thing we can get is that their operations ended when Kirito, Asuna, and everyone else tracked down their guild and apprehended all of them."

"Are they going to be a problem?" Rogers asked. Given the situation with Hydra, he wanted to keep the platoon apprised of other threats in Japan.

"We'll do the best we can to keep a lookout for any more." Kikuoka answered. "But salutation to your soldiers for their steadfast guardianship."

"We've also questioned Private Burton on the matter as well." Rogers said. "He did attest to seeing the symbol that you confirmed."

He then gave Kikuoka the details of the symbol. He even had a sketch that Damion made at Sergeant Ramirez's request.

"I see..." Kikuoka observed the sketch of the symbol. "Did I tell you that you have some artists in the ranks?"

"I believe you have." Rogers answered.

Kikuoka smiled a bit as he looked at the virtually perfect sketch. "Your soldier just sketched it out exactly as it appears. Plus, I heard that your soldier displayed strength and speed when he took down the intruders."

"Right," Rogers nodded, "but this is the emblem, right?" He pointed to the creepy smiling coffin on the sketch.

"It is..." Kikouka confirmed. "And given that two of their number just attempted a real world assassination, I have cause to detain them for further interrogation."

"Also," Kikuoka added, "it's best that we notify the threat of Laughing Coffin and expect their assassination attempts in the real world."

"So you do think that they will target other survivors," Rogers surmised.

"And they could very well exploit the chaos to target your military," Kikuoka pointed out, "they are sport killers who might find challenge in targeting your soldiers. Also, most of them are still minors, so neutralizing them should be considered a priority."

"You do understand that if they attack my troops, they are going to respond in self-defense," Rogers cautioned, "so I will be leaving this issue of Laughing Coffin to you and your team."

"Very well." Kikuoka nodded. "I will handle that. But they may have information regarding of their leader and his whereabouts." He reminded.

"I will stay in touch with our intelligence on new developments," Rogers assured.

"Alright then, now that there's nothing else to discuss." Kikuoka nodded before Rogers logged off, ending the connection. Kikuoka allowed himself to deflate a bit. Even after SAO was cleared, chaos is still continued from the ashes. And now there was the prospect of war on Japanese soil.

"The world continues to change." He lamented. At least he got to attend the wedding of Kazuto and Asuna for a break.